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Board of Health: one rabid raccoon found in Linden; residents urged to report contacts
Summary
The Linden Board of Health reported one raccoon that tested positive for rabies near East Linden Avenue; officials urged residents to avoid contact with wildlife and to report any human or pet exposures to the Board of Health or Police Department.
The Linden Board of Health notified the council and public that a raccoon found on 01/13/2026 between East Linden Avenue, South Park Avenue and Ashton Avenue tested positive for rabies. Councilman Javec read the report into the record and said no additional cases have been reported and the incident "appears to be isolated." The advisory instructed residents to report human or pet contact with suspected rabid animals to the Linden Board of Health at (908) 474-8409, or during nonbusiness hours to the Linden Police Department at (908) 474-8500 or 911. The Board reminded residents that local ordinances prohibit feeding wildlife and noted the Board runs three free rabies clinics each May at city firehouses for eligible residents.
The Board's report included guidance on symptoms of rabid animals — abnormal aggression or daytime activity, staggering, paralysis, drooling, or difficulty swallowing — and advised immediate medical attention if a person or pet is bitten or scratched.
This was an advisory read during the departmental reports section; there was no vote associated with the notice.
