Dear Residents,

Please see this important message below regarding rabies:

About Rabies

Rabies is a preventable viral disease that affects mammals and is transmitted through the bite or saliva of an infected animal. Coyotes, like black bears, can lose their natural fear of humans when food is provided—either intentionally or unintentionally.

Signs and Symptoms of Rabies
 
In Humans:

• Early symptoms: Fever, headache, and general weakness
• Later symptoms: Insomnia, anxiety, paralysis, hallucinations, difficulty swallowing, and fear of water (hydrophobia)
• Outcome: Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal if untreated

 
In Animals:

• Unprovoked aggression
• Lack of coordination or paralysis
• Unusual friendliness
• Disorientation or confusion

 
Public Health Response
 
Northwest Bergen Regional Health Commission is working directly with affected residents. Residents are urged to remain cautious and to report any animal exhibiting abnormal, sick, or aggressive behavior immediately to Animal Control. Please contact Animal Control through Police Dispatch.

Safety Recommendations 

• Avoid Walking Pets at Dawn or Dusk; Coyotes are most active during these hours.
• If walking your dog, use a short leash and remain alert.

Supervise Children and Pets

• Always watch children playing outdoors or waiting for school buses—especially in areas where coyotes have been seen.

Secure Your Property

• Install motion-sensor lights to deter wildlife.
• Remove attractants such as birdseed, pet food, and unsecured garbage.

Keep Pets Up to Date on Rabies Vaccinations

• Pets are not fully immunized until 28 days after their first rabies vaccine.
• Keep newly vaccinated or too-young pets (under 3 months) indoors or under close supervision.

Protect Yourself and Your Pets

• Avoid contact with wildlife or unfamiliar animals.
• Keep pets leashed and do not allow them to roam freely.
• Never feed or touch wild or stray animals—including stray cats, bats, skunks, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, or groundhogs.
• Teach children to report animal bites or scratches immediately.

 
If You Are Bitten or Exposed

• Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
• Seek medical attention immediately.
• Contact your doctor and your local health department.

 
If Your Pet Is Exposed

• Contact your veterinarian if your pet has contact with a bat, raccoon, skunk, or other wild carnivore.

Know the Law
 
Most municipalities have ordinances that strictly prohibit feeding wildlife in public parks or on Borough property.
These ordinances help protect public health and safety by reducing the likelihood of wildlife being attracted to residential areas. Violations may result in enforcement actions and penalties.
 
Contact Information
 
Northwest Bergen Regional Health Commission
20 W Prospect St, Waldwick, NJ 07463
Phone: (201) 445-7217

Thanks for helping keep our community safe and healthy.

Take care,
NWBRHC Staff