New Case of Rabies Reported in Lawrence Township

Editor's Note: The following news release was issued Dec. 23 by Lawrence Township Health Department

Within the last week, the Lawrence Township Health Department was notified of a raccoon on Helen Avenue in Lawrence Township.

The raccoon appeared ill and was not afraid of humans or animals, therefore it was tested by the New Jersey State Health Department Laboratory and determined to be positive for rabies.

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 (609) 844-7092 if you know of any human or domestic pet contact with this raccoon in the past 14 days. 

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 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.

Because rabies has been identified in the area, it is important to 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.

Please contact the Lawrence Township animal control officer at (609) 844-7092.

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