Rabies Confirmed In Raccoon Found In Severn

SEVERN, MD — County health officials are warning residents that a raccoon found in Severn has tested positive for rabies. Owners should check their pets for unexplained injuries.

The Anne Arundel County Department of Health said the raccoon was seen near the intersection of Braun Avenue and Burns Crossing Road in Severn. The animal was found on Dec. 29.

If you or your pet had contact with a raccoon, or your pet has wounds, contact the Anne Arundel County Department of Health at 410-222-7254 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 443-481-3140 after business hours.

Rabies is spread by the bite or scratch of an infected animal, such as a groundhog, cat, fox, raccoon 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, health officials said.

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

The Department of Health asks residents not to feed wild or stray animals or leave food dishes outside.

Pet owners should also keep their animals’ rabies vaccinations current.

For more information about rabies, go to: https://www.aahealth.org/rabies. To get a free fact sheet on rabies, call 410-222-7254.