Child was leaving nursery school when she was attacked and scratched by a raccoon.
If a human or pet is bitten by a raccoon get treatment immediately, health officials said. (File photo) FRANKLIN -- A young child has been bitten by a raccoon with rabies in the area of Easton Avenue in the Somerset section of the township, according to the Somerset County Department of Health.
On or about Nov. 6, a young child was leaving a nursery school when she was attacked and scratched by a raccoon, the agency said.
Franklin Township Animal Control captured the raccoon and sent it to the public health laboratory at the New Jersey State Department of Health where rabies was confirmed, the agency said. The child is currently undergoing preventative treatment for rabies, the agency said.
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Franklin Township residents who see an animal acting strangely should call the Franklin Township Animal Shelter at 732-873-2500, ext. 6255, or the Franklin Township Police Department at 732-873-2300, evenings and weekends.
"If you are bitten or attacked by an animal, do not delay in reporting it to the health authorities," said Somerset County Health Officer Dr. Paul Masaba. "Rabies is a serious illness that can be fatal in humans without treatment."
People can get rabies through animal bites or when saliva of an infected animal enters the body through cuts or scratches. Rabies is preventable with prompt medical attention, the agency said.
Anyone who is bitten or scratched by a wild or stray animal - including stray dogs and cats - should promptly wash the area with soap and water and seek medical attention, the agency said.
If a pet is bitten or scratched, take it to a vet promptly, the agency said.
In either case, be sure to report the incident immediately to the police and the local health department.
For health department contact information in Somerset County municipalities, visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/health/localhealth.aspx.
A listing of upcoming rabies clinics in Somerset County can be found on the Somerset County Department of Health events calendar at www.co.somerset.nj.us/health/events.aspx#rabies. The listing is updated as clinic dates are added.
Dave Hutchinson may be reached at dhutchinson@njadvancemedia.com.Follow him on Twitter @DHutch_SL. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
