Rabies-positive bat discovered near Community Park School playground in Princeton – Local news from Princeton, NJ

A bat found on the ground near the Community Park School playground this week has tested positive for rabies, local officials confirmed. The discovery was made by a staff member of the Princeton Recreation Department on July 9 at around 9 a.m. The brown bat was observed alive and moving near the playground, prompting immediate action to capture and test the animal.

Princeton Animal Control Officer Jim Ferry took charge of capturing the bat and sent it to the New Jersey Public Health and Environmental Laboratory for testing. The results came back on July 10, confirming that the bat had tested positive for rabies. Fortunately, it seems that no humans were exposed to the bat. However, anyone who may have come into physical contact with the bat is advised to notify the Princeton Health Department for guidance and seek medical treatment promptly.

Rabies is a deadly viral disease that can be prevented by avoiding contact with rabid animals. If a person has been exposed to an animal carrying the virus, getting vaccinated immediately can prevent the disease from developing. Rabies can be transmitted through a bite or scratch from a rabid animal, or when the animal’s saliva comes into contact with a person’s mouth, eyes, or an open wound.

The threat of rabies is particularly significant for unvaccinated domestic animals. Pet owners are urged to ensure that their animals are up to date with their rabies vaccinations to protect them from the disease. Rabies is present throughout New Jersey, including in Princeton, with various wildlife species such as skunks, foxes, raccoons, groundhogs, bats, and unvaccinated domestic animals being susceptible to the virus.

In Princeton, an average of three to six animals test positive for rabies each year, highlighting the importance of vigilance and preventive measures. While human rabies cases in the United States are rare, it is crucial to be aware of the behavioral signs of rabid animals, whether wild or domestic. These signs may include staggering, restlessness, aggression, changes in vocalizations, or unusual behavior such as being active during the day for nocturnal animals like bats.

If you or a loved one is bitten or scratched by an unfamiliar or suspected rabid animal, immediate action is necessary. Thoroughly wash the wound with soap and water and seek medical attention promptly. It is essential to report the incident to the Princeton Health Department, as not all exposures require post-exposure treatment. Health Department and Animal Control staff will work together to locate, capture, and test suspected animals to determine their infectious status.

To protect your family and pets from rabies, follow these steps:

– Ensure your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
– Keep children and pets away from wild or unfamiliar animals.
– Seal openings to your home to prevent wildlife entry.
– Discourage wild animal foraging by securing garbage cans and not leaving pet food outside.
– Avoid feeding, touching, or housing stray or wild animals.
– Contact Princeton Animal Control if you encounter a sick, injured, or behaving oddly domestic or wild animal.

In case of emergencies or sightings outside of regular business hours, contact the Princeton Police Department Non-Emergency Line at (609) 921-2100. By taking these precautions and being aware of the risks associated with rabies, you can help protect your community from this deadly disease.