Many people are unaware of what constitutes an exposure to rabies or the proper procedure to follow if you or your pet have been exposed after contact with wildlife or bats. The following is a guide to what constitutes an exposure and the procedure to follow.1. Any contact with a wild animal that results in a wound or contact with the animals saliva or body fluids is considered an exposure. If your pet is exposed, the animal should only be handled after you thoroughly hose off your pet and insure the wild animal's saliva or body fluids are removed. You should always wear gloves to avoid skin contact with the wild animal's saliva or body fluids. If you are bitten or scratched, the wound should be immediately washed with soap and hot water and you should contact your doctor. If possible, the wild animal should be captured and confined so it can be tested.
2. A bat in the living area of your house while you were sleeping does constitute an exposure to rabies, even if you do not think you were bitten. If possible, the bat should be captured and placed in a coffee can or similar sealable container, marked "live bat" and then placed in a refrigerator (do not freeze).
If either of these conditions occur, you should immediately contact the Health Department. If there is no answer, please call the receptionist and she will direct you. After hours, please contact the Police Department.
Health Department 973-361-8444 x 15
Police Department 973-366-5893
