Atlantic County Confirms Second Rabies Case

Atlantic County health officials have confirmed that a rabid bat was found in the backyard of a Galloway residence located in the 400 block of South Nectar Avenue.

Get our free mobile app

The Press of Atlantic City reports the bat was discovered in the backyard after the homeowner's dog starting barking at the bat who was exhibiting strange behavior and seemed ill.

The Atlantic County Division of Public Health removed the bat from the premises and confirmed the case of rabies. There were no known human exposures. The dog was up to date on his rabies vaccination but was given a booster and placed under an informal confinement ban just to be on the safe side.

This is the second confirmed case of rabies in Atlantic County. A raccoon tested positive for rabies earlier this year in the Port Republic.

It's so important to make sure you vaccinate your pet against rabies and that they are up to date with shots. The next free rabies clinic for cats only from the Atlantic County Animal Shelter is June 13th from 9 AM to Noon and July 11 from 9 AM to Noon for dogs only. Appointments are necessary.

You can call the Animal Shelter at 609-485-2345. Residents are urged to vaccinate their pets against rabies which can be a fatal virus disease for your pet. It also ensures the safety of family members from contracting the disease from a sick pet.

sources: pressofatlanticcity.com atlantic-county.org