Rabies Alert in Gloucester Township
Date: Wednesday, April 25
Location: Gloucester Township, New Jersey
Incident: The New Jersey Department of Health and Human Services, in coordination with Camden County Officials, confirmed a case of rabies in a raccoon removed from a neighborhood in Gloucester Township.
Reported Incident: A resident in Gloucester Township alerted authorities on April 25 after their dog encountered the raccoon.
Action Taken: The Township’s animal control officer promptly removed the raccoon and sent it to the state’s Public Health and Environmental Laboratories in Trenton for testing.
Lab Confirmation: This week, the lab confirmed that the raccoon was indeed rabid, according to county authorities.
Response: No human exposures were reported, but precautionary measures were taken. The dog involved was administered a rabies booster and will be closely monitored under a strict four-month quarantine.
Community Awareness: Health bulletins have been distributed in the vicinity where the rabid raccoon was discovered, ensuring that residents are aware and vigilant.
Official Statement: Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, acting as liaison to the Camden County Health Department, emphasized the importance of immediate medical attention for anyone bitten or scratched by a wild animal, as early treatment is crucial in preventing rabies.
