Raccoon Tests Positive For Rabies In Gloucester Township, NJ

CHERRY HILL, NJ (CBS) – The New Jersey Department of Health and Human services has notified the Camden County Health Department that a raccoon removed from Cherry Hill tested positive for rabies.

The raccoon was spotted in the afternoon of October 23 in a resident's backyard. The rabid animal may have come in contact with the family's dog. The homeowner contacted an animal control officer who removed the raccoon and arranged rabies testing.

Fortunately, the dog was current with its rabies vaccinations and will receive a rabies booster from a veterinarian. State regulations say the dog must be confined and observed for 45 days from the date of the incident.

Freeholder Carmen Rodriguez says, "Although rabies is a serious illness, it can be prevented by early treatment. If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild animal it is important that you seek immediate medical attention."

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