Community Corner

Raccoon in Lawrence Township Tests Positive for Rabies

Please call the Lawrence Township Health Department at 844-7092 if you know of any human or domestic pet contact with this raccoon in the past fourteen days.

A raccoon in Lawrence Township tested positive for rabies earlier this week, the Township's Health Department announced on Friday. 

The raccoon was in the area of Lawrence and Carter roads. 

It  appeared to be ill and was exhibiting possible signs of rabies, promoting a test by the New Jersey State Health Department Laboratory. 

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It is important for public health reasons to determine if anyone was in contact with this raccoon. Please call the Lawrence Township Health Department at 844-7092 if you know of any human or domestic pet contact with this raccoon in the past 14 days.  

Rabid animals are usually either 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 wild animals, such as raccoons, skunks, and groundhogs, may be able to infect people even though they appear to be normal, and these animals should be avoided at all times.

Find out what's happening in Lawrencevillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Because rabies has been identified in the area, remind remind all residents of the requirement and public health importance in vaccinating and licensing cats and dogs. Please check your pet’s records to verify their rabies vaccination is current.

If you have additional questions or need more information, contact the Lawrence Township animal control officer at 844-7092 or Health Officer Carol Chamberlain at 844-7089. 


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