Mullica Township Homeowner Discovers Rabid Raccoon

From the Atlantic City Press Published: Monday, August 25, 2008

Press Staff Reports

A raccoon that was collected on Wescoat Avenue near Nesco Road in Mullica Township has tested positive for rabies, according to Atlantic County Health Officer Patricia Diamond. An investigation by county health officials indicates that there were no human exposures and one possible animal exposure.

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The property owner discovered the raccoon attacking a cat on his property on Aug. 13. The raccoon was removed by an animal control officer and sent for testing at the New Jersey State Department of Health laboratory. Test results were confirmed on August 20. This is the second confirmed case of rabies in Mullica Township this year and the eleventh case found in Atlantic County in 2008.

“Rabies continues to be present in wildlife in Atlantic County. While it is most prevalent in raccoons, it has also been found in bats, skunks, foxes, cats, groundhogs, ferrets and dogs. Contact with any unknown or wild animal should be avoided,” according to Diamond.

She also advises residents to seek immediate medical attention if they have been bitten by an animal or exposed through a scratch or contact with an animal’s saliva. The incident should also be reported to the Division of Public Health by calling 609-645-5971.

For more information about rabies control, visit the Atlantic County Web site at www.aclink.org/publichealth or call 609-645-5971.