Raccoon Picked up by Animal Control Tests Positive for Rabies
Thursday Jul 11th, 2019
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
D’Paul Nibber: Office: 410-545-0823, Cell: 443-571-8816
The Baltimore City Health Department Office of Animal Control picked up a raccoon from Schenley Road in the Roland Park neighborhood on July 9th that has tested positive for rabies. Anyone who came into contact with a raccoon near this location recently should contact the Office of Acute Communicable Disease at 410-396-4436 during business hours or 410-396-3100 afterhours.
Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. It is usually spread to humans through the bite of an infected animal or getting saliva from an infected animal into an open wound or in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Rabies is not spread by petting a rabid animal or contact with blood, urine, or feces (stool).
To protect your family and pets from rabies:
Have your dogs, cats, and ferrets vaccinated regularly.
- Do not let pets roam free.
- Enjoy wildlife from a distance.
- Teach children to stay away from animals they don’t know.
- Cover garbage cans securely and do not leave pet food outside.
- Prevent bats from entering your home.
If you are bitten by or exposed to an animal that may be rabid, you should:
- Immediately wash the wound well with soap and water; if available, use a disinfectant to flush the wound.
- Get prompt medical attention.
- Report the exposure to your local health department.