Full Notification

Northwest Bergen Regional Health Commission 
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Public Health Advisory: Rabies Prevention and Coyote Safety
Date: October 27, 2025
About Rabies
Rabies is a preventable viral disease that affects mammals and is transmitted through the bite or saliva of an infected animal. Coyotes—like black bears—can lose their natural fear of humans when food is provided, intentionally or unintentionally.
Signs and Symptoms of Rabies
In Humans

• Early symptoms: fever, headache, general weakness.
• Later symptoms: insomnia, anxiety, paralysis, hallucinations, difficulty swallowing, and hydrophobia (fear of water).
• Outcome: once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal if untreated.

• Unprovoked aggression.
• Lack of coordination or paralysis.
• Unusual friendliness.
• Disorientation or confusion.

• Animal Control: via Police Dispatch at 201-327-5300

• Coyotes are most active during these hours.
• If walking your dog, use a short leash and remain alert.

• Closely watch children playing outdoors or waiting for school buses, especially where coyotes have been seen.

• Install motion-sensor lights to deter wildlife.
• Remove attractants such as birdseed, pet food, and unsecured garbage.

• Pets are not fully immunized until 28 days after their first rabies vaccine.
• Keep newly vaccinated pets—or pets under three months old—indoors or under close supervision.

• Avoid contact with wildlife or unfamiliar animals.
• Keep pets leashed; do not allow them to roam freely.
• Never feed or touch wild or stray animals, including stray cats, bats, skunks, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, or groundhogs.
• Teach children to report animal bites or scratches immediately.

• Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
• Seek medical attention immediately.
• Contact your physician and your local health department.

• Contact your veterinarian if your pet has contact with a bat, raccoon, skunk, or other wild carnivore.