Health & Fitness

Rabid Bat Found In Middletown Aug. 20

This is at least the second rabid animal found in Middletown so far this summer, as a rabid skunk was found Aug. 12 on Sylvia Terrace​.

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — A rabid bat was found in Middletown Twp. Aug. 20, the Township health department reported. This is at least the second rabid animal found in Middletown so far this summer, as a rabid skunk was found Aug. 12 on Sylvia Terrace.

In this most recent incident, Middletown health officials responded to a call from a resident of a bat flopping on the ground during the day last Monday in the area of Buchanan Blvd.

Middletown Animal Control captured it and sent it to the State Laboratory for testing. Lab results that came back Monday, Aug. 27 confirmed that the bat was rabid.

Find out what's happening in Middletownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Four dogs were in close proximity to the bat while it was on the ground, but no pets or humans were exposed.

As Patch reported, the skunk was found acting sick on August 12 in the area of Sylvia Terrace between Maplewood Drive and Bayberry. It too was captured by Animal Control and sent to the state lab, where it came back positive for rabies.

Find out what's happening in Middletownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

If you find a sick animal or animal acting weirdly: Residents should be reminded not to interact with wildlife under any circumstance. If you come across a sick or injured animal, keep your distance and please contact Animal Control at 732-615-2097 immediately or contact the Police Department at 732-615-2100 after hours and on weekends.

Remember, any bat can carry the rabies virus, the Township said.

Related: Rabid Skunk Found In Middletown Aug. 12

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