RABIES NOTICE
October 10, 2007

On October 4, 2007, the Morris Township Health Department received notification from a resident that there was a raccoon acting aggressively. The raccoon was killed by the resident. This occurred in the Laura Lane area of the township. The raccoon was then transported to our veterinarian for specimen preparation. The raccoon was transported to the NJ Department of Health Laboratory for Rabies testing. The raccoon tested positive for the Rabies virus on Tuesday October 9th.

If any residents been bitten or scratched by any stray or wild animal contact the Morris Township Health Department immediately at 973-326-7390. If you know of any stray cats or dogs or any other animal in the area acting strangely, please contact St. Hubert’s Giralda Animal Welfare at 973-377-2295.

Rabies is a preventable, fatal viral disease found in the saliva of infected domestic and wild animals. The virus can be transmitted by a bite or contamination of an open cut. Common carriers of the virus are mammals including raccoons, skunks, foxes, woodchucks, bats, and feral (stray) cats. You are advised to stay away from wild animals and animals that you do not know. DO NOT FEED STRAY ANIMALS. Do not make pets of wild animals. Please keep garbage in a container with a tight fitting lid to prevent attracting animals. Do not leave pet food out for extended time periods. Please be certain that your cat or dog is properly vaccinated and up to date on rabies vaccinations. There are more cases of rabies in cats than in dogs; so rabies vaccination is especially important for cats. Be certain that your cat or dog is properly licensed, and is wearing their license tag.

If you are exposed (either bitten or scratched) by any suspect animal act promptly. Immediately wash the bite wound with soap and water and call your doctor and the Health Department. If your pet is involved with a suspect animal contact the Health Department and your Veterinarian.