Rabies Alert in New Jersey: Cat Tests Positive After Attacking Woman

Rabies Alert Issued in Middlesex County

• ⚠️ A rabies alert is in effect for parts of New Jersey, following a positive rabies test for a cat that attacked a woman.
• 🚨 Middlesex County Health Services has issued an alert, urging residents to take precautions to prevent the transmission of rabies to humans and pets.

Potential Exposure and Animal Control Efforts

• 🐈 Animal control officers visited a property multiple times, appearing to set a trap for animals.
• 🐾 At least 10 additional cats in the vicinity may have been exposed to the rabid cat, which tested positive on Tuesday.
• 🌳 Feral cats are commonly found in the wooded areas near the property where the captured cat was located.

Veterinarian Recommendations for Pet Owners

• 💉 Pet owners are strongly advised to ensure their dogs and cats are vaccinated against rabies by 12 weeks of age.
• 🚫 It is crucial to avoid handling any stray animals, as rabies has no cure and contact can be life-threatening.

Recognizing and Reporting Rabid Animals

• 🧐 Residents should be aware of animals exhibiting symptoms such as slow movement, appearing sick, excessive drooling, aggressive behavior, paralysis, or biting.
• 📞 If an animal displays these symptoms, or if a raccoon is seen during the day, or a cat is acting aggressively, do not attempt to catch it; instead, contact your local health department or veterinarian.