Skunk In Parsippany Tests Positive For Rabies

PARSIPPANY, NJ — A skunk in town tested positive for rabies, according to the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Health Department. The creature was found off Mohawk Avenue in the Lake Hiawatha section of town.

Rabies is a fatal disease of warm-blooded mammals caused by a virus, most frequently spread through a bite or scratch from an infected animal. An infected animal has the virus in its saliva and can infect other animals or people through bites and contact with saliva. Once infected animals become ill, they may bite or attack other animals or people.

Common carriers of the virus are raccoons, skunks, foxes, woodchucks, bats and feral (stray) cats. The township advised people to stay away from wild animals and animals they do not know. Do not feed stray animals.

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If you know of any stray cats or dogs or any other animal in the area acting strangely, contact Parsippany Animal Control at 973-263-7083. The township reminded people to make sure their dogs are properly licensed and up to date on vaccinations.

Keep garbage in a container with a tight-fitting lid to prevent attracting animals. Clean up spilled bird seed. Do not leave pet food out for extended time periods.

If you are exposed — bitten or scratched — by any suspected animal, act promptly. Immediately wash the wound with soap and water and call your physician and the health department.

If your pet is bitten in a fight with a wild animal, contact the Parsippany Health Department at 973-263-7160 and your veterinarian.

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