Groundhog in New Jersey tests positive for rabies after attacking homeowner

A groundhog recovered from the 1300 block of Weekstown Road in Mullica Township tested positive for rabies, Atlantic County health officials said. The animal had attacked a homeowner on July 27 and was sent to a state laboratory, where rabies was confirmed on July 31. This is the county's second confirmed rabies case this year, following a raccoon found in the same township in January.

The county investigation identified one human exposure and exposure involving two outdoor cats. The homeowner is receiving post-exposure prophylaxis, while the cats are under a four-month informal observation period.

Rabies is a viral disease transmitted through saliva that contacts broken skin or mucous membranes and can be fatal if untreated. Although groundhogs are less commonly associated with rabies than raccoons, bats, skunks or foxes, the virus can infect many mammal species.

Public health officials advise cleaning any animal bite with soap and water and seeking medical care promptly. Pet owners are urged to keep cats indoors, supervise dogs outdoors, maintain up-to-date vaccinations and limit attractants such as pet food or trash that may draw wildlife near homes. Residents should avoid handling wildlife that appears aggressive, unusually tame, disoriented or sick and contact animal control or health authorities instead.