Hiker Attacked By Rabid Raccoon in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
A recent incident at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area has raised concerns after a visitor was bitten by a raccoon while hiking along the McDade Recreational Trail between Bushkill Access and the Valley View Campground on March 14. Subsequent testing revealed that the raccoon was infected with rabies, a potentially fatal disease that affects both humans and animals.
Rabies is typically transmitted through the bites of infected animals and can affect any mammal. While not all sick animals carry rabies, caution is urged when encountering wildlife displaying unusual behavior, such as aggression without provocation or confusion in the presence of humans. Authorities are uncertain if other animals within the park may be affected.
Visitors are advised to avoid approaching or handling sick or deceased wildlife. Instead, individuals are encouraged to note the location and promptly inform park personnel or contact the park's 24-hour emergency communications center at (570) 426-2457. Additionally, pet owners are reminded to ensure their animals are up-to-date on vaccinations and kept on a leash while in the park. Any encounters with wildlife should be reported to park staff.
In response to the incident, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is collaborating with the National Park Service Office of Public Health and Wildlife Health Branch to safeguard the well-being of both visitors and wildlife. Measures include testing sick or deceased wildlife and providing public notifications in cases where rabies is detected within the park. Visitors are reminded to admire wildlife from a safe distance to minimize potential risks.
* Information gathered from press releases issued by the National Parks Service
