Rabid Raccoon in South Jersey Town

A dead raccoon removed from a South Jersey neighborhood has tested positive for rabies, according to officials in Camden County.

The New Jersey Department of Health and Human Services (NJDHSS) confirmed through testing that the raccoon, who was killed during a fight with a family dog in the Fairview neighborhood of Camden City, had rabies.

Camden County confirms that the dog involved was up-to-date with its rabies vaccinations and has received a rabies booster since the incident. The dog must now be confined and observed for 45 days, according to state regulation.

Freeholder Carmen Rodriguez, liason to the Camden County Health Department, suggests keeping up with your pet's rabies vaccinations. He also says it's important to avoid contact with unfamiliar and wild animals.

"Although rabies is a serious illness, it can be prevented by early treatment,” said Rodriguez. “If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild animal it is important that you seek immediate medical attention.”