Baltimore Health Officials Confirm Raccoon Picked Up Tested Positive For Rabies

By Staff Reporter
Posted on 07/12/19 | News Source: WBAL TV

BALTIMORE — Baltimore City Health Department Office of Animal Control confirms a raccoon picked up on Tuesday, tested positive for rabies.

According to officials, the raccoon picked up from Schenley Road in the Roland Par k neighborhood tested positive for rabies.

Officials said 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 after hours.

Facts about Rabies:

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).

Officials said 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.