Rabid Skunk Found In Middletown

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — The Middletown Township Health Department has received laboratory confirmation of a skunk testing positive for rabies, Middletown announced Monday night, March 12. The animal was found acting strangely in the street. A resident attempted to remove the skunk from the roadway and had direct contact with it. The incident occurred in the area of 8th Street and Oceanview Avenue in Belford.

They weren't bitten, but handled the animal. They picked it up and tried to get it to walk away, and were possibly exposed to the saliva of the animal, Middletown Township health director Rich Debenedetto said. The resident was referred to their physician to assess exposure and the possible need for post-exposure treatment.

Residents should not be interacting with wildlife. If you come across a sick or injured animal, do not touch or handle it. Keep your distance and please contact Animal Control at 732-615-2097 immediately or contact the Police Department after hours and on weekends at 732-615-2100.

Please make sure all domestic animals (dogs, cats, and livestock) are currently vaccinated with a Rabies shot. Do not let your pets run free off leash, even in the woods, to ensure they do not come in contact with wildlife that may be rabid. Remember, Rabies is a fatal disease. The best course of defense is the vaccination of your pets and not handling or interacting with wildlife.

The Middletown Health Department would like to remind everyone that all dogs and cats must be licensed in the Township. Please call 732-615-2097 for more information.