Rabies Advisory Issued In Middlesex County

Officials in Middlesex County have issued a rabies advisory after a groundhog tested positive in Old Bridge.

The groundhog, found in the vicinity of Pomona Blvd and Raritan Blvd, is the 10th positive specimen in Middlesex County this year.

Middlesex County Residents are advised to immediately report any bites from a wild or domestic animal to their local health department and consult a physician as soon as possible.

The rabies virus is found in the saliva of a rabid animal and is transmitted by a bite, or possibly by contamination of an open cut. Bats, raccoons, skunks, groundhogs, foxes, cats, and dogs represent about 95 percent of animals diagnosed with rabies in the United States, officials from Middlesex County said in the advisory.

The Middlesex County Public Health Department is advising residents to follow these guidelines in order to prevent rabies from being transmitted to themselves or their pets:

1. Immediately report a bite from a wild or domestic animal to your local healthdepartment. Wash animal bite wounds thoroughly with soap and water as soon as possible after the bite. Contamination of open cuts or scratches with saliva of potentially rabid animals should also be washed off immediately. Consult a physician as soon as possible.

2. Immediately report any wild animal showing signs of unusual behavior. Signs of unusual animal behavior include: moving slowly, acting tame, appearing sick, trouble swallowing, increased saliva and drooling, act aggressive, trouble moving and biting at everything. Residents should avoid any contact with the animal and call your local animal control officer or local police department.

3. Be sure that all family pets are up to date on their rabies vaccination. If unsure please call your veterinarian. Call your local health department for free rabies vaccination clinic availability.

4. Animal proof your home and yard. Make sure all garbage containers have tight fitting lids, do not leave pet food or water outside, do not allow rainwater to collect in outdoor containers or equipment and keep yard free of garbage and debris.

5. Do not feed or handle wild animals.

6. Avoid contact with stray animals or pets other than your own.

7. Try to prevent your pets from coming into contact with wild animals.

8. Screen off vents to attics and other areas that could provide shelter for bats.