Burlington Review

A stray kitten found in Mount Holly has tested positive for rabies, according to the Burlington County Health Department. The kitten was discovered on a property on Emma Street and taken to the Burlington County Animal Shelter, where it was subsequently tested. The test returned positive on August 8.

The health department confirmed that the kitten had no direct contact with any animals at the shelter. Individuals who have been exposed to this kitten have been identified by the department.

Officials are urging the public to take specific actions:

- Contact the Health Department immediately if you have been scratched or bitten by a stray cat, dog, or wild animal in your neighborhood within the last two weeks. The department can be reached at 609-265-5548.

- Check your pets' rabies vaccination status and consult your veterinarian if it has been longer than three months since their last vaccine.

- Avoid feeding wild or stray animals and steer clear of bats, skunks, foxes, cats, and raccoons.

Rabies is a fatal viral disease affecting the brain. It spreads through saliva from infected animals via bites or when saliva contacts broken skin, open wounds, or mucous membranes such as those in the mouth, nose, or eyes. Rabies is common among certain wildlife in New Jersey.

For more information about rabies, visit: http://www.cdc.gov/rabies/.

Residents with questions or concerns can contact Burlington County Animal Shelter Director Ericka Haines at 609-265-5376.