Middletown Raccoon Tests Positive for Rabies

The Middletown Township Health Department has received laboratory confirmation of a raccoon testing positive for rabies, township officials announced Monday. The announcement brings the total number of animals testing positive this year to 14.

This latest incident happened in the area of Seabird Lane, officials said.

According to the township:

Over the past few months, the township Health Department has found and reported raccoons and one fox that have tested positive for Rabies. The previous locations of the animals were:

The township would like to alert residents about the dangers of interacting with any wildlife. Rabies can be found in many animals. The Health Department would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to keep their distance from all wildlife, ill appearing or not, and to also keep an eye on pets around these animals. Do not let dogs or cats run free where they may become in contact with wildlife. All dogs and cats must be licensed in Middletown, which requires that they all have current rabies vaccinations.

If you come across a sick or injured animal, keep your distance and please contact Animal Control at 732-615-2097 immediately or contact the Police Department after hours and on weekends. Remember, Rabies is a fatal disease. The best course of defense is the vaccination of your pets and not handling or interacting with wildlife.