Rabid Raccoon In D'Ville

DAVIDSONVILLE, MD — Authorities are asking anyone who came across a rabid raccoon last week to contact the Anne Arundel County Department of Health. The raccoon was found March 30 near the intersection of Riva Road and Aisquith Farm Road in Davidsonville, and has tested positive for rabies.

If you or your pet had contact with a raccoon, or your pet has unexplained wounds, officials urge you to contact the Anne Arundel County Department of Health at 410-222-7256 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or call 443-481-3140 after business hours.

Rabies is spread by the bite or scratch of an infected animal, such as a cat, fox, raccoon or bat. It is also spread when the 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 Department of Health warns residents not to feed wild or stray animals or leave food dishes outside. Pet owners should also keep their animals' rabies vaccinations current.