Fox Tests Positive For Rabies In Bridgewater

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — A fox in Bridgewater tested positive for rabies on Thursday, said the Middle-Brook Regional Health Commission on Friday.

The health commission is asking anyone who may have had direct contact with a fox in town in the past several days to act right away.

Anyone, including pet owners whose animals may have had direct contact with a fox in Bridgewater, should immediately notify the Health Department and seek medical attention.

The commission serves Bridgewater, Green Brook, Warren, and Watchung.

The alert warns that rabies is a neurological disease and that time matters after a possible exposure. The commission said rabies is "almost 100 percent preventable."

It also said rabies is "nearly always fatal once symptoms have developed so prompt action is necessary to prevent rabies!"

Residents were reminded to avoid contact with wild animals, make sure pets are current on rabies vaccinations and report animal bites.

The notice did not identify where in Bridgewater the fox was found or describe any known human or pet exposures.

The Middle-Brook Regional Health Commission said it is available to help residents with incidents involving possible exposure. Bridgewater residents can call 908-725-6300. The commission can also be reached at 732-968-5151, and Warren residents can call 908-753-8000 ext. 239.

Residents can also email mbrhc@middlebrookhealth.org with questions or concerns. If an incident happens after normal hours, the commission said residents should contact their local police department.

For more information about rabies, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov/rabies.

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