East Brunswick Resident Bitten By Rabid Bat

An East Brunswick resident was bitten by a rabid bat, authorities said.

East Brunswick residents found the bat acting lethargic in their backyard on Sunday, according to a news release from the Middlesex County Office of Health Services.

• SEE RELATED STORY: Bat Found In South Brunswick Tests Positive For Rabies

According to that news release:

The residents attempted to care for the bat, which was found near Milltown Road and Route 18 in East Brunswick.

The bat bit one of the residents, and the other was also exposed to the animal. They have been advised to consult a doctor.

The bat died and was sent to the state Department of Health lab for testing. On Tuesday, county officials learned that the bat tested positive for rabies.

It is the fourth rabid animal reported in Middlesex County this year and the second in East Brunswick.

On Tuesday, South Brunswick officials said a bat found in the Monmouth Junction section of town tested positive for rabies.

County officials say a health specialist will distribute rabies fact sheets in that East Brunswick neighborhood.

They also say residents should:

• “Report wild animals showing signs of unusual behavior to the Police Department.
• “Avoid contact with wild animals and immediately report any bites from wild or domestic animals to your local health department and consult a physician as soon as possible.
• “Be sure that all family pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations and licenses.”