Rabid Raccoon Found In Annapolis Dec. 30

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Another rabid raccoon has been detected in Annapolis. The Anne Arundel County Department of Health is seeking anyone who may have come in contact with the raccoon, which was picked up near the intersection of Canterwood Court and Old Mill Bottom Run in the Old Mill Bottom Estates neighborhood.

The raccoon was found Dec. 30 and tested positive for rabies. If anyone or a pet has had contact with a raccoon or if a pet has unexplained wounds, contact the Anne Arundel County Department of Health at 410-222-7256 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 443-481-3140 on holidays and after business hours.

Rabies is spread by the bite or scratch of an infected animal, such as a groundhog, cat, fox, raccoon 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 raccoon. Rabies is a fatal disease and preventive treatment (injections) must be started as soon as possible. The county health department advises county residents not to feed wild or stray animals or leave food dishes outside. Pet owners should also keep their animals’ rabies vaccinations current.