SOUTH RIVER — A skunk has tested positive for rabies in South River in the vicinity of Ferris Street and Dailey Street.
This is the third rabid animal reported in South River and the 15th reported within Middlesex County this year, according to the Middlesex County Office of Health Services.
On Nov. 25, the animal control officer for South River responded to a call about a skunk that had bitten a resident.
The skunk was euthanized and sent to the New Jersey Department of Health Laboratory for testing. It was reported on Nov. 28 that the animal tested positive for rabies, according to the county office.
After the incident, the person who was bitten was taken to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick for medical attention.
Residents should report wild animals showing signs of unusual behavior to the local police department. Additionally, it is recommended that residents avoid contact with wild animals and immediately report any bites from wild or domestic animals to a local health department and consult a physician as soon as possible.
Finally, all family pets should be up to date on their rabies vaccinations and licenses, according to the Office of Health Services.