Fox With Rabies Found in Woodbridge

A fox was captured near the Claremont Avenue School in Colonia and has tested positive for rabies, township health officials announced Monday.

The fox, found Nov. 19, had collapsed and was near death when it was recovered by Animal Control officers. Its carcass was transported to the state Department of Health forensic laboratory for testing.

State officials told Woodbridge Animal Control Monday that the fox did indeed test positive for rabies.

The news has prompted Dennis Green, the Woodbridge Township Director of Health & Human Services, to issue a rabies warning to all residents:

1) If you live near the Claremont Avenue school in Colonia, you should contact the Health Department immediately at: 732-855-0600 ext. 5007 if you believe you may have come in close contact with the fox.

2) Rabies can affect any warm-blooded animal. DO NOT come in close contact with stray or wild animals and DO NOT let your children play with or feed any wildlife.

3) Make sure trash, garbage and recycling containers are closed tightly.

4) Be cautious when there is wildlife nearby. If you see a wild animal acting strangely, contact the Health Department/Animal Control at: 732-855-0600, ext. 5007.

5) Make sure pets are current with their rabies vaccine. If they are not current, please take them to your veterinarian immediately for a rabies vaccine.

6) DO NOT feed pets outside. This will attract wildlife to your home.

7) If you are bitten by an animal, especially one that is acting erratically, contain the animal if you can do so safely or get a good description of the animal for later identification. Cleanse the wound, seek medical attention and contact the Health Department at 732-855-0600, ext 5007.

File photo; not the actual fox.