Rabies Alert Issued by Township; Verify Dogs and Cats are Vaccinated

Message posted on the Middletown Township government website

The Health Department has received laboratory confirmation of a second raccoon testing positive for Rabies. The animal was found in the area of Essex Street and Bray Avenue in the North Middletown section of the Township.  The raccoon did not have any reported contact with people or other domestic animals but was exhibiting signs of severe illness.

In light of finding a rabid raccoon, we would like to remind residents about the possibility of wildlife being infected with Rabies. Please make sure all domestic animals (dogs, cats, and livestock) are currently vaccinated with a Rabies shot.

Residents should not be interacting with wildlife. 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.