On January 13, 2026, a raccoon demonstrating abnormal behavior was reported in the area of E. Linden Ave between S. Park Ave & Ashton Ave. Officials located the racoon, and subsequent testing confirmed the racoon was positive for rabies.
This information is being shared out of an abundance of caution; no additional cases have been reported, and this appears to be an isolated incident.
We are asking residents living in the area to please report any direct human or pet contact with suspected rabid animals to the Linden Board of Health at (908) 474-8409. During an emergency or during non-business hours, please contact the Linden Police Department by calling (908) 474-8500 or by dialing 9-1-1.
Residents should also avoid contact and immediately report any wild or stray animals that exhibit potentially suspicious behaviors, such as:
• Abnormal aggression or tameness
• nocturnal animals active in daytime (bats, skunks)
• staggering or paralysis
• excessive drooling
• difficulty swallowing/eating
