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(For Immediate Release – Somerset County, NJ): The Somerset County Department of Health is warning residents that a raccoon found in the area of Spring Hollow Road in Far Hills has tested positive for rabies.
On June 15, 2026, a resident's dogs were exposed to a rabid raccoon and killed it in their backyard. The raccoon was subsequently collected by Animal Control Solutions and submitted to the New Jersey Department of Health Public Health Laboratory, where rabies was confirmed. The dogs are up to date on their rabies vaccinations and are currently under quarantine as required by law.
Any resident who sees an animal acting strangely should stay away and immediately contact their local police department or health department.
"While rabies is a serious illness, it is entirely preventable with prompt treatment," said Somerset County Health Officer Himanshi Bhatt. "We encourage all residents to vaccinate their pets and avoid contact with wild or stray animals, especially those that appear sick or are acting unusually."
People can get rabies through animal bites or when the saliva of an infected animal enters the body through cuts or scratches. Anyone bitten or scratched by a wild or stray animal should promptly wash the area with soap and water and seek medical attention. If a pet is bitten or scratched, contact a veterinarian promptly. In either case, report the incident immediately to local police and the local health department. Visit http://bit.ly/MunicHealth for a list of local health departments in Somerset County.
According to the New Jersey Department of Health, 20 raccoons tested positive for rabies in New Jersey between January and March of this year.
Pet owners are strongly encouraged to keep their animals' rabies vaccinations up to date. Information on upcoming rabies vaccination clinics in Somerset County can be found at http://bit.ly/HealthCalendar, or residents may contact their veterinarian directly.
For more information about rabies, visit the New Jersey Department of Health at https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/topics/rabies.shtml
To learn more about Somerset County, register for free email alerts at somersetcountynj.gov/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube.
About Somerset County
The County of Somerset is committed to excellence and innovation in public service, promoting the well-being of all residents and communities by providing effective, efficient, and responsive leadership.
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