Rabies Confirmed In South Jersey Animals: What To Know

MOUNT HOLLY, NJ — A wild raccoon that fought with a dog in Mount Holly had rabies, the Burlington County Health Department said they learned on Monday.

The animals had an altercation near Blue Jay Lane in Mount Holly on Wednesday. The raccoon later died and its remains were tested.

The dog was vaccinated and given a rabies booster. Its owners were also advised to get treatment as a precaution.

Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the brain and lives in saliva.

No other animals or humans were confirmed to have been exposed to the raccoon as of Monday, officials said.

Anyone who has been bitten or scratched by a raccoon, other wild animals, stray cats, or stray dogs in the last month should seek care from their primary doctor or another physician, the Department added.

Potential cases should also be reported to the Burlington County Health Department at 609-265-5073.

Anyone who encounters a suspicious stray animal should keep a far distance away and contact local animal control. Do not try to catch or handle the animals.

Animals should receive a rabies booster if they spend time outdoors without supervision and have not gotten a shot within the last three months.

Free vaccine clinics are held each month at the Burlington County Animal Shelter at 35 Academy Dr. (Westhampton).

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