Raccoon with Rabies Symptoms Found in Lawrenceville

raccoonThe Lawrence Township Health Department was notified this week of a raccoon in the area of Fackler Road in Lawrence Township. The raccoon had contact with humans.

The raccoon appeared to be ill and exhibited possible signs of rabies. The raccoon was captured and submitted for testing to
the New Jersey State Health Department Laboratory, but due to the physical condition of the raccoon the lab  was unable to test the raccoon for rabies.

Officials are asking anyone who may have come in contact with the raccoon over the last 14 to 21 days to call the Lawrence Township Health Department at(609) 844-7092.

Rabid animals are usually either vicious and aggressive, or act dazed and are partially or totally paralyzed. They often have trouble walking
and may appear to be drunk. Stay away from all wild and stray domestic animals that are aggressive or appear to be sick. Some wild animals, including raccoons, skunks, and groundhogs, may be able to infect people even though they appear to be normal. These animals should be avoided at all times.