Rabies Alert For Harford County After Raccoon Tests Positive

BEL AIR, MD — A raccoon found in the Pylesville area has tested positive for the rabies virus, the Harford County Health Department said Friday. Local officials received confirmation of the case from the Maryland Department of Health.

The raccoon found between the 1700 and 1900 blocks of Eden Mill Road may have exposed other residents and pets in the area to rabies.

Rabies is spread by the bite or scratch of an infected animal, such as a groundhog, cat, fox, raccoon, skunk or bat. It is also spread when an infected animal’s saliva comes in contact with the eyes, nose, mouth or open cut of a person or another animal.

Preventive treatment might be required for anyone who handled, fed or was attacked by the infected animal. Rabies is a fatal disease, and preventive treatment (injections) must be started as soon as possible.

If you or your pets have had contact with a raccoon, contact the Harford County Health Department at 410-877-2300 for follow up.

Health officials shared tips for residents to protect themselves and their pets:

• All pets — especially cats, dogs and ferrets — should have current rabies immunizations.
• Always keep pets leashed when out for walks and closely monitored in your backyard.
• Secure outside garbage in covered containers to avoid attracting wild animals.
• Do not leave pet food outside.
• Avoid contact with all wildlife, especially feral cats, raccoons, bats, and foxes.
• If bitten or scratched by a suspected rabid animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water, then seek medical attention.

Animals that appear sick or injured that have had no human or pet contact can be reported to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources at 877-463-6497 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or the Maryland Natural Resources Police at 410-260-8888 after hours.