The Ocean County Health Department is reminding residents to take precautions against rabies as warmer weather leads to increased outdoor activity and more encounters with wildlife.

Health officials warned that while human rabies cases in the United States are rare — with only one to three reported annually — the disease is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. Officials noted that prompt medical treatment after exposure is highly effective in preventing infection, with approximately 60,000 Americans receiving post-exposure prophylaxis each year following possible exposure.

Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system and is commonly spread through bites, scratches, or contact with saliva from an infected animal. Wildlife such as raccoons, bats, skunks, and foxes account for most rabies cases reported nationwide.

“Residents should appreciate wildlife from a safe distance and remain aware of unusual animal behavior,” said Daniel Regenye, Public Health Coordinator and Health Officer for the Ocean County Health Department. Officials cautioned that animals acting unusually friendly, aggressive, disoriented, or unafraid of people may be showing signs of rabies. Parents are also encouraged to remind children never to approach or touch wild animals.

Ocean County Deputy Commissioner Jennifier Bachionne said residents can greatly reduce the risk of rabies exposure by vaccinating pets, securing trash containers, protecting attics from bats, and avoiding contact with wild animals.

Officials say anyone bitten or scratched by an animal should immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water, seek medical attention, contact local animal control authorities, and report the incident to the Ocean County Health Department.

The county’s animal facilities continue to offer free rabies vaccine clinics in Jackson and Manahawkin throughout the month.