A sick raccoon discovered in College Park, Maryland, examined constructive for rabies on Monday, prompting an alert to report anybody which will have had contact with the wild animal to the Prince George’s County Health Department.
A sick raccoon discovered in College Park, Maryland, final week examined constructive for rabies on Monday, prompting an alert urging anybody who might have had contact with the wild animal to succeed in out to the Prince George’s County Health Department.
A rabid raccoon was captured alive in the 5200 block of Iroquois Street on Thursday, April 11, however the rabies affirmation got here 5 days later, in keeping with a information launch from the county’s health division.
Rabies is transmitted by saliva, often spreading to folks and pets which were scratched or bitten by a wild animal, in keeping with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“Rabies is a life-threatening illness that’s prevented by beginning post-exposure remedy as quickly as attainable,” stated county health officer Dr. Matthew Levy. “The finest technique to stop publicity to rabies is to keep away from contact with unfamiliar animals and guarantee family pets are vaccinated for rabies. Community members ought to report uncommon animal conduct and keep away from dealing with or feeding unknown animals in their group”
The health division additionally recommends holding a detailed eye on pets when they’re outdoor and never leaving pet meals outdoors. Rabies in people may be prevented with 4 doses of the vaccine over 14 days.
About 900 Marylanders obtain preventative remedy for rabies every year after publicity to rabid or probably rabid animals, in keeping with the county’s health division.
If you or somebody you recognize was uncovered to the rabid raccoon discovered in College Park, officers need you to name the county health division instantly at 301-583-3750, or 240-508-5774 after 4:30 p.m. on holidays or weekends.
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