Rabid bat found in Middlesex County home

SOUTH RIVER - A live bat found in a home in the borough has tested positive for rabies, the Middlesex County Office of Health Services said in a statement.

The bat was discovered in the vicinity of Daily and Edgewood streets, the statement said.

This is the fourth rabid animal reported this year in Middlesex County and the first rabid animal in South River.

On Monday, two South River residents found a live bat in their home. The animal was picked up by the Animal Control Officer and taken to the New Jersey Department of Health Laboratory for testing. It was reported Wednesday that the animal tested positive for rabies.

There were three possible exposures to the bat − the two residents and their dog.

It was recommended that the residents contact a physician about any rabies post exposure treatment. It was also recommended that they contact a veterinarian about their dog. The dog is vaccinated for rabies.

The Middlesex County Office of Health Services continues to monitor rabies cases within the municipality.

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Residents should report wild animals showing signs of unusual behavior to the Police Department.

Additionally, it is recommended that residents should avoid contact with wild animals and immediately report any bites from wild or domestic animals to a local health department and consult a physician as soon as possible.

Residents are also reminded that all family pets should stay up to date on rabies vaccinations.

Email: sloyer@gannettnj.com

Susan Loyer covers Middlesex County and more for MyCentralJersey.com. To get unlimited access to her work, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Rabid bat found in Middlesex County home