The raccoon that bit a man Monday in Atlantic County N.J., has tested positive for rabies. The incident occurred in the 1100 block of Plaza Place in Absecon, reports the pressof AtlanticCity.
Around 2 p.m. on October 31, 60-year-old Robert Seabrook went outside to retrieve his mail when he noticed the animal further away in some bushes. But as Seabrook was about to re-enter his home he found the raccoon unexpectedly next to him on the porch.
"I kind of tried to shoo him away with the mail that was in my hand," Seabrook told the press of AtlanticCity.
The animal ended up biting and scratching Seabrook’s leg, who then immediately called the police. Sgt. Raymond Adams says police found and killed the animal. Seabrook was administered the first of a series of rabies shots Monday as a precaution, and after the confirmation, he will seek further treatment.
"From what I understand, this medical procedure is very, very successful," he told the pressofAtlanticCity. "I shouldn't have anything to worry about as long as I follow their directions."
Atlantic County is no stranger to cases of rabies recently. This year alone there have been twelve reported incidents, eight of which have involved raccoons, according to GallowayPatch.com.Patricia Diamond, an Atlantic County Health Officer advises to stay away and never touch or feed wild animals. But if you do suffer a bite, wash the area with soap and water and seek medical attention, reports GallowayPatch.com.
More information can be found by visiting Atlantic County’s website.
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