A sick raccoon found in College Park, Maryland, tested positive for rabies on Monday, prompting the Prince George's County Health Department to alert anyone who may have come into contact with the wild animal to report it.
A sick raccoon found in College Park, Maryland, last week tested positive for rabies on Monday, prompting anyone who may have come into contact with the wild animal to contact the Prince George's County Health Department.
A rabid raccoon was captured alive in the 5200 block of Iroquois Avenue on Thursday, April 11, but rabies was not confirmed five days later, according to a news release from the county health department.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, rabies is transmitted through saliva and is usually spread to people and pets who are scratched or bitten by wild animals.
“Rabies is a life-threatening disease that can be prevented by beginning post-exposure treatment as soon as possible,” said County Health Officer Dr. Matthew Levy. “The best way to prevent exposure to rabies is to avoid contact with unfamiliar animals and ensure household pets are vaccinated against rabies. Community members should report unusual animal behavior and People should avoid touching or feeding unknown animals in the community.”
The health department also recommends that you always keep an eye on your pet when they are outdoors and do not leave pet food outside. Rabies in humans can be prevented with her 4 vaccinations over 14 days.
Approximately 900 Marylanders receive preventive rabies treatment each year after contact with a rabid or potentially rabid animal, according to the county health department.
If you or someone you know becomes infected with a rabid raccoon found in College Park, authorities recommend immediately calling the county health department at 301-583-3750 or 240-508-5774 after 4:30 p.m. on holidays or weekends. I am asking you to do so.
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