In a shocking encounter, a rabid groundhog bit two unsuspecting patrons in Hillsborough, New Jersey, raising serious health concerns and community alarm.
At a Glance
- A rabid groundhog attacked and bit two people outside a gastropub in Hillsborough, New Jersey.
- The animal was captured by police, euthanized, and later tested positive for rabies.
- The two victims received immediate medical attention and are recovering.
- The Hillsborough Health Department has issued a public health alert, urging residents to be cautious and ensure pets are vaccinated.
- This marks the 10th rabid animal reported in Somerset County in 2025.
A “Berserk” Attack in Hillsborough
A calm day took a terrifying turn when a rabid groundhog went “berserk” and attacked two people outside The Landing gastropub on Camplain Road in Hillsborough, New Jersey. The animal bit both individuals in separate encounters before police were called to the scene.
According to the New York Post, Hillsborough police successfully captured the animal, which was later euthanized. The New Jersey Department of Health confirmed through testing that the groundhog was infected with the rabies virus. The two victims were taken to a local hospital for immediate medical treatment.
The Danger of Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease that infects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans, and is almost invariably fatal if left untreated before symptoms appear. The virus is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, typically via a bite.
Anyone who is bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal must seek immediate medical care, which includes a series of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) shots to prevent the virus from taking hold. The two Hillsborough victims are currently undergoing this treatment.
A Public Health Alert
In response to the incident, the Hillsborough Health Department has issued an urgent public health alert. As reported by local news outlet TAPinto Hillsborough, officials are advising all residents to take the following precautions:
- Ensure all pets, including cats and dogs, have up-to-date rabies vaccinations.
- Avoid any contact with wild or stray animals, especially those acting strangely.
- Never feed wild animals.
- Report any animal bites or potential exposures to a doctor and the local health department immediately.
This is the 10th animal to test positive for rabies in Somerset County in 2025, serving as a stark reminder that the virus remains a persistent threat in local wildlife.
