Cherry Hill, N.J. – Residents of Cherry Hill are being urged to take precautions after a skunk tested positive for rabies following an encounter with two dogs on February 20, 2026. The incident has prompted a public health advisory from the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services, highlighting the importance of pet vaccinations and avoiding contact with wild animals. This incident underscores the ongoing risk of rabies in New Jersey and the need for vigilance among pet owners and residents.
According to officials, the residents safely trapped the skunk after observing it in an altercation with their dogs in their backyard. They then transported the animal to a wildlife rescue center, which arranged for rabies testing at the state Public Health & Environmental Laboratories in Trenton. On February 26, 2026, the lab confirmed the presence of the rabies virus. The dog owners were immediately notified of the potential exposure and advised to consult with their physicians about receiving post-exposure prophylaxis, a series of shots that can prevent the development of rabies if administered promptly after exposure.
Rabies Exposure and Pet Safety
Fortunately, both dogs involved in the incident were up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations. They will be confined and observed for four months, as per state and local regulations. This observation period is crucial to ensure that the vaccinations have provided adequate protection and that the dogs do not develop any signs of the disease. CBS News reported that this standard protocol helps to safeguard both the animals and the community.
Rabies is a serious viral illness that affects the central nervous system. It is typically transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, most commonly through bites or scratches. Symptoms in animals can include behavioral changes, aggression, paralysis and difficulty swallowing. In humans, initial symptoms can resemble the flu, but can quickly progress to more severe neurological complications, ultimately proving fatal if left untreated.
Public Health Recommendations
The Camden County Department of Health and Human Services is emphasizing several key steps residents can take to protect themselves and their pets. Commissioner Jennifer Cooley Fleisher stressed that “Rabies is a serious illness, but it can be prevented by early treatment after exposure.” She urges anyone bitten or scratched by a wild animal to seek immediate medical attention. The Courier-Post detailed these recommendations.
Specifically, officials recommend:
- Keeping pet vaccinations current.
- Supervising pets closely when they are outdoors.
- Seeking immediate veterinary care if a pet is bitten or scratched by a wild animal.
- Avoiding any contact with unfamiliar animals, especially those exhibiting unusual behavior.
Understanding Rabies in New Jersey
Even as rabies is not common in New Jersey, it is present in wildlife populations, including skunks, raccoons, bats, and foxes. The New Jersey Department of Health actively monitors rabies cases in the state and provides guidance to local health departments. Hoodline reported on the importance of these preventative measures.
What to Do If You Suspect Rabies Exposure
If you or a pet has been bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal, it is crucial to take the following steps:
- Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
- Seek immediate medical attention for humans, and veterinary care for pets.
- Report the incident to your local health department and animal control.
Post-exposure prophylaxis for humans involves a series of rabies vaccinations and, in some cases, rabies immunoglobulin. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent the disease from developing. The two residents who encountered the skunk are following these guidelines, according to reports.
The Camden County Department of Health and Human Services continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as needed. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious animal behavior to the authorities. The health department can be reached for further information and guidance on rabies prevention.
The next update from the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services regarding this incident is expected within the next week, as they continue to monitor the dogs involved. Residents are encouraged to check the county’s website for the latest information. If you see an animal acting strangely, please contact animal control immediately.
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