A raccoon found on Patriot’s Path near Inamere Road has tested positive for the rabies virus, Morris Township health officials announced on Tuesday.
This is a deadly virus, and officials urge residents to take the following precautions for themselves and their pets.
FROM MORRIS TOWNSHIP HEALTH OFFICER KEVIN BREEN:
RABIES ADVISORY NOTICE
The Morris Township Health Department was notified that a raccoon found on Patriot’s Path near Inamere Road has tested positive for the Rabies virus.
Rabies is a fatal disease of warm-blooded mammals caused by a virus. An infected animal carries the rabies virus in its saliva and infects other animals or people through bites, scratches, and contact with the saliva. Once infected animals become ill, they may bite or attack other animals or people.
Common carriers of the virus are raccoons, skunks, foxes, woodchucks, bats, and feral (stray) cats. You are advised to stay away from wild and unfamiliar animals.
Please DO NOT FEED STRAY ANIMALS. Do not make pets of wild animals. Be certain that your cat or dog is properly vaccinated and up to date on their rabies vaccination. If you know of any cats, dogs, or any other animal in the area acting strangely, please contact the Health Department.
Please keep garbage in a container with a tight fitting lid to prevent attracting animals. Clean up spilled bird seed. Do not leave pet food out for extended periods of time.
If you are exposed (either bitten or scratched) by any suspected animal; please act promptly. Immediately wash the bite wound with soap and water and call your physician and the Health Department.
If your pet is bitten or in an fight with a wild animal, please contact the Health Department at 973-326-7390 and your Veterinarian.
