Full Notification

The following information was recieved from the Hunterdon County Health Department. Inquiries should be directed to them at 908-7881351,

Public Health Alert

RABIES INCIDENT

WEST AMWELLTOWNSHIP
RESIDENTS
In the area of:
Route 518, Hewitts Road, and Woodens Lane

Raccoon Tested Positive for Rabies

An adult raccoon tested positive for rabies on 9/13/19.

Area residents who may have had contact with this raccoon any time between 8/23/19 to 9/6/19 - should notify their Primary Care Physician immediately or the Hunterdon Medical Center Emergency Room to discuss concerns, re: possible exposure and the need for post exposure prophylaxis treatment.

It is important to remember not to pick up stray animals at any time. Saliva from infected animals should be considered infectious.

Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus. The virus is found in the saliva of a rabid animal and is transmitted by a bite, or possibly by saliva of an open cut or the eyes. The disease is transmitted from animals to human or from animals to other animals. Humans can be protected by receiving rabies prophylaxis after exposure.

How can we protect ourselves from rabies?
• Vaccinate your pets against rabies and keep vaccinations up-to-date
• Do not feed or touch wild animals
• Avoid contact with strays or pets other than your own

All owners of cats, dogs and livestock should have the vaccination against rabies through their veterinarian or through municipal rabies clinics. For a listing of upcoming free rabies clinics, visit the Hunterdon County Department of Health Info Line website - http://www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/health/rabiesclinics.html

For more information, call 908-788-1351. After hours and on weekends, call 908-788-1202. To reach the West Amwell
Control Officer, Christine Cochran & Christopher Vallone at Saint Huberst Animal Welfare, call 908-526-3330.


Physical Address: 314 State Rte 12, County Complex, Bldg. #1, 2nd Floor
Mailing Address: P O Box 2900, Flemington, NJ 08822
Tel (908) 788-1351 Fax (908) 782-7510
Email: [email protected]

Instructions:

If required, Contact Hunterdon County Health Dept. for additional info