Rabid Skunk in Cherry Hill, New Jersey Prompts Health Alert

A skunk found in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, has tested positive for rabies, prompting a health advisory from the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services. The incident, which occurred on February 20, 2026, involved the skunk interacting with two dogs in a resident’s backyard CBS News, Courier-Post, NBC10 Philadelphia and NJ.com.

Exposure and Response

The residents safely trapped the skunk and contacted a wildlife rescue center, which facilitated rabies testing at the state Public Health & Environmental Laboratories in Trenton CBS News. On February 26, 2026, the Camden County health department received confirmation of the positive rabies test Courier-Post.

The dog owners were notified of potential rabies exposure and advised to consult their physicians regarding post-exposure prophylaxis CBS News, Courier-Post. Both dogs involved had been vaccinated and will be confined and observed for four months CBS News, NBC10 Philadelphia.

Rabies Prevention and Symptoms

Camden County officials emphasize that rabies is a serious but preventable illness with prompt medical intervention CBS News, Courier-Post. Post-exposure prophylaxis, as recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, typically involves wound care, human rabies immune globulin, and a series of vaccinations Courier-Post.

Recommendations for Residents

Health officials advise residents to take the following precautions:

• Retain pet vaccinations current.
• Supervise pets closely even as outdoors.
• Seek immediate veterinary care if a pet is bitten or scratched by a wild animal.
• Avoid contact with unfamiliar animals.
• Seek immediate medical attention if bitten or scratched by a wild animal.

“Rabies is a serious illness, but it can be prevented by early treatment after exposure,” said Camden County Department of Health Commissioner Jennifer Cooley Fleisher CBS News, Courier-Post, NBC10 Philadelphia.