Atlantic County has confirmed its first rabies case of the year after a raccoon collected from the 2100 block of 7th Avenue in Mullica was confirmed positive for the viral disease on January 28.
Health officials were notified by the homeowner that its dog had gotten into a scuffle with a raccoon. The raccoon was removed from the property and taken to the state lab for testing where it was confirmed positive for rabies.
An investigation by the Atlantic County Division of Public Health found no known human exposures. The family dog is current on its rabies vaccination and received a booster shot. As a safety precaution, the dog was placed under a 45-day informal confinement for observation.
Rabies can be fatal if left untreated. It can be transmitted through direct contact with saliva through broken skin or mucous membranes in the eyes, nose or mouth. Most human cases of rabies are the result of a bite from an infected animal. If you are bitten by an animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention. All bites should be reported to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at (609) 645-5971.
A rabies vaccination is recommended for domestic animals to not only protect the pet but also the pet owner and family members who could contract rabies from an infected pet.
The Atlantic County Animal Shelter provides free rabies vaccination clinics for both dogs and cats by appointment only. For more information, visit atlanticcountynj.gov.
Public health officials advise residents to teach children to stay away from wild, stray or aggressive animals. Never feed or touch wild animals or try to keep them as pets.
Residents should ensure trash cans have secure lids to prevent wildlife from foraging for food and not leave pet food outside. Many animals are also attracted to bird seed.
If you see wildlife that is behaving strangely, especially nocturnal animals such as skunks and raccoons found during daylight hours, do not approach the animal. Instead, call your local Animal Control Officer.
For more information about rabies control and precautions to protect your family and your pets, please visit the county web site at atlanticcountynj.gov or call (609) 645-5971.