Rabid Bat Found On North Jersey Hiking Trail

SUSSEX COUNTY, NJ — Authorities are issuing warnings to residents after a rabid bat was found on a Sussex County hiking trail.

On Wednesday, Hopatcong officials announced that a bat found on Lackawanna Trail tested positive for rabies.

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Police say if a resident or their pet has been in contact with a bat recently, medical or veterinary guidance should be sought immediately.

Authorities also say that if a bat is found inside a home, residents should call the Hopatcong Police Department immediately so Animal Control can safely capture the bat.

Officials may need to test the bat if it came into contact with a person or pet, so police advise residents to not release the bat until experts can determine whether post-exposure treatment is necessary.

Hopatcong police reminded residents:

• Keep pets up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
• Avoid handling bats or any wild animals.
• Supervise children and teach them never to touch wildlife.
• If you wake up and find a bat in your room, or a bat is found in a room with a sleeping person, young child, or someone unable to communicate, do not release the bat; call the Hopatcong Police Department at 973-398-5000 immediately.

Rabies is a contagious and deadly disease that can affect all mammals. The disease is spread through bites, scratches, or any exposure to an open wound.

Common signs of rabies include staggering, restlessness, aggression, choking, or a change in the tone of their barks or growls. Some animals may show radical behavioral changes, like nocturnal animals coming out during the day, for example.

While bats are the most common animal to carry rabies, animals including raccoons, dogs, cats, and other mammals can carry and spread the deadly disease.

If you or your pet is bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal, the wound should be cleaned immediately, and you should seek medical attention ASAP. If not treated promptly, rabies can be fatal.