Piscataway: Rabid Bat Flies Into Home

PISCATAWAY, NJ — A bat got into a house last week in Piscataway, and the Middlesex County Office of Health Services confirmed Wednesday that the bat tested positive for rabies.

The house is located in the area of Rivercrest Drive and Ludlow Street and the homeowner found the bat inside their home last Thursday, May 21.

The bat was picked up by an Animal Control officer and was taken to the state lab. It was reported on Wednesday, May 27 that the bat tested positive for rabies.

Many people may not realize that bats are common carriers of the rabies virus, and that humans should not touch them. Rabies is very common in Middlesex County and throughout New Jersey. This is the third rabid animal reported within Middlesex County so far in 2020, according to the county health department.

There was one possible human exposure. The resident was notified to consult a physician and to have a veterinarian evaluate any domestic animals.

Residents should report wild animals showing signs of unusual behavior to their local police department. Additionally, it is recommended that residents should 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.

Make sure all pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.