Rabid Raccoon Found In Bel Air

DARLINGTON, MD — On Thursday, Harford County Health Department officials received confirmation from the Maryland Department of Health that a raccoon found in Bel Air tested positive for rabies.

Although officials found this raccoon in the 1800 block of Braavos Court in Bel Air, it may have exposed other people or pets in the surrounding area to the rabies virus.

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"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 at 410-877-2300 for follow-up," the department stated.

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.

The county health department suggested residents can keep themselves and their pets safe by taking the following precautions:

• Always keep pets leashed when out for walks and closely monitored in your backyard.
• Keep all cats, dogs, and ferrets up to date on rabies vaccinations through your vet or a local rabies vaccination clinic.
• Cover trash cans and do not leave pet food outside.
• Avoid feeding, petting, or otherwise interacting with wildlife.
• If an animal bites or scratches you, wash the wound immediately with soap and water, then seek medical attention.

Notify Harford County Animal Control at 410-638-3505 if you see a stray animal showing abnormal behaviors such as excessive affection, aggression, lethargy or disorientation.

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