From The Banner · Sara Ruberg · · 1m 30s
Rabies alert after raccoon tests positive in Harford County
A raccoon in Street, Maryland tested positive for rabies, prompting health officials to warn residents and pet owners to take precautions.
In brief
A raccoon in Street, Maryland tested positive for rabies, prompting health officials to warn residents and pet owners to take precautions. Rabies is preventable with quick treatment after exposure, but nearly always fatal once symptoms appear, so immediate medical attention after any animal contact is critical…
Raccoon tests positive for rabies
A raccoon found in the 1900 block of Jerrys Road in Street tested positive for rabies, prompting the Harford County Health Department to issue an alert on Friday.
Contact the health department if exposed
Residents and pet owners who had contact with a raccoon in the area should contact the Harford County Health Department immediately.
“Witnessing a raccoon is not cause for alarm. But if you or your pets have had contact with a raccoon in this area please contact the Harford County Health Department.”
Rabies is preventable but deadly
Rabies can be easily prevented if treated quickly after exposure or a bite, but it is almost always fatal after symptoms start.
Vaccinate pets and keep them safe
Maryland law requires all pet dogs, cats and ferrets to be vaccinated for rabies. The health department recommends keeping pets on a leash and watching them when outside.
Rabies cases remain rare statewide
Though several unusual rabies cases appeared this summer, including a fox in Baltimore and a beaver at state parks, rabies infections have actually decreased over the past two decades.
Another rabies case in Harford County
Earlier this month, a bat tested positive for rabies at St. Margaret School in Bel Air. It is unclear if anyone was exposed in that incident.
Here's the gist
Rabies is preventable with quick treatment after exposure, but nearly always fatal once symptoms appear, so immediate medical attention after any animal contact is critical.
