SOUTH RIVER – South River is reporting its second rabid animal of 2017.
Upon returning home on Oct. 31, two residents observed a raccoon in their driveway in the vicinity of Louis Street and Burton Avenue that appeared to be moving sluggishly and dragging its hind legs, according to a statement provided by the Middlesex County Office of Health Services.
In an attempt to care for the raccoon, the residents took the animal to a local veterinarian’s office for treatment, according to reports. While at the veterinarian’s office, the raccoon was euthanized and sent to the New Jersey Department of Health Laboratory for testing. It was reported on Nov. 2 that the animal tested positive for rabies.
There are two confirmed human exposures and no domestic animal exposures to the raccoon, according to officials. The residents were advised to follow up with their primary care physician regarding any post exposure treatment.
This is the 12th rabid animal reported within Middlesex County for the year.