Rabid raccoon confirmed amid aggressive behavior reports in Bethlehem Township
Animal control reports four incidents involving sick raccoons near Iron Bridge Road, including one in which a raccoon attacked a resident and a worker.
Bethlehem Township's animal control officer is warning residents after four incidents involving sick raccoons near Iron Bridge Road, including one animal that tested positive for rabies.
In a statement shared by Mayor Paul Muir, the officer said the latest incident involved a raccoon aggressively attacking a resident and a worker. The statement did not indicate whether anyone was injured.
Only one of the four raccoons was tested for rabies. The officer said the others may also have been infected but emphasized that the incidents do not mean there is an outbreak.
Residents are being asked to report unusual raccoon behavior, including daytime sightings, to animal control at 908-763-5035.
The officer noted that seeing a raccoon during the day does not automatically indicate rabies, but said such sightings should be reported because of the recent incidents in the area.
Residents are also encouraged to make sure their pets are up to date on rabies vaccinations.
A free rabies vaccination clinic is scheduled for Nov. 7 from noon to 1 p.m. in Bethlehem Township.
