Raccoon Tests Positive For Rabies In Lawrence Twp., Alert Issued

LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ — The Lawrence Township Health Department has issued an alert after a raccoon tested positive for rabies.

Within the last week, the health department was notified of a raccoon on Cold Soil Road in Lawrence Township.

Since the raccoon was in contact with many neighborhood pets, it was tested by the New Jersey State Health Department Laboratory and was found to be positive for rabies.

Residents are asked to call the Lawrence Township Animal Control Officer at 609-844-7092 if they know of any human or pet that may have been in contact with this raccoon in the past 14 days.

Because rabies has been identified in the area, officials are reminding residents of the requirement and public health importance in vaccinating and licensing cats and dogs.

Rabid animals are usually both vicious and aggressive (“furious” rabies) or act dazed and are partially or totally paralyzed (“dumb” rabies).

They often have trouble walking and may appear to be “drunk.” People should stay away from all wild and stray domestic animals, which are aggressive or appear to be sick.

Some animals, like raccoons and groundhogs, may be able to infect people even though they appear to be normal. They should be avoided at all times.

Residents can contact the Lawrence Township Animal Control Officer at 609-844-7092, if they have any additional questions or concerns. They can also contact Health Officer Carol Chamberlain at 609-844-7089.

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