Another Bat Tests Positive For Rabies in Hamilton Twp., NJ

A second bat found in Hamilton Township within the past week has tested positive for rabies.

County health officials say this bat was collected from the 1100 block of Calhoun Avenue in Mays Landing on August 21st after being found by a homeowner in the residence.

The bat was sent to a state lab for testing and was confirmed positive on August 23rd.

According to authorities,

An investigation by public health officials identified two human exposures and one animal exposure in a domestic cat. Public health nurses are advising family members while the cat, which was current with its rabies vaccinations, will be boostered and placed under a 45-day confinement.

This marks the sixth case of a rabid animal in Atlantic County so far this year.

Just last week, a rabid bat was found by a resident on Bala Court in the Oakcrest Estates neighborhood of Mays Landing.

What you need to know

A rabies vaccination is recommended for domestic animals to not only protect the pet but also the pet owner and family members who could contract rabies from an infected pet.

Rabies is fatal if left untreated. It can be transmitted through direct contact with saliva through broken skin or mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Most human cases of rabies are the result of a bite from an infected animal.

If you are bitten by an animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention.

All bites should be reported to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at (609) 645-5971.

If you see wildlife that is behaving strangely, especially nocturnal animals such as skunks and raccoons during daylight hours, do not approach the animal. Call your local animal control officer.