EAST BRUNSWICK — A fox tested positive for rabies in the vicinity of Matawan Road and Squire Street on April 30.
An East Brunswick animal control officer responded to a complaint of a fox, and the animal was sent to the New Jersey Department of Health laboratory for testing.
The fox was the sixth rabid animal reported within Middlesex County in 2013 and the second rabid animal reported in East Brunswick, according to the Middlesex County Office of Health Services. A skunk tested positive for rabies on April 24.
The Middlesex County Office of Health Services recommends that residents report wild animals showing signs of unusual behavior to their local animal control officer. Residents are encouraged to report animals that are moving slowly, acting tame, appearing sick, having trouble swallowing, showing an increase of saliva or drooling, acting aggressive, moving with difficulty, exhibiting signs of paralysis or biting at everything.
Additionally, the department recommends that residents avoid contact with wild animals and immediately report any bites from wild or domestic animals to the local health department. Wash animal bite wounds thoroughly with soap and water as soon as possible after the bite. Contamination of open cuts or scratches with saliva of potentially rabid animals should also be washed off immediately. Consult a physician as soon as possible.
Residents are advised to animal-proof their homes and yards, making sure garbage containers have tight-fitting lids. Do not leave pet food or water outside, or allow rainwater to collect in outdoor containers. Be sure that all family pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations and licenses, health officials advised.