A raccoon near a Bel Air neighborhood tested positive for rabies Friday, and health officials say residents and their pets in the area may have been exposed.
What happened: The Harford County Health Department confirmed Friday that a raccoon found near the 1100 block of Timberlea Drive tested positive for rabies. The Maryland Department of Health confirmed the test result.
What this means for you: Anyone who touched or had close contact with a raccoon in that area — or whose pet did — should call the Harford County Health Department at (410) 877-2300. Rabies is a deadly virus that spreads through the saliva of infected animals, usually through a bite or scratch. It can infect people and pets.
What to watch for: Health officials say simply seeing a raccoon is not a reason to panic. But residents should call Harford County Animal Control at (410) 638-3505 if they spot a stray animal acting strangely — including animals that seem unusually friendly, aggressive, sluggish, or confused.
How to protect your family and pets: The health department advises residents to:
- Keep dogs and cats current on rabies vaccinations through a vet or a local rabies vaccination clinic.
- Keep pets on a leash during walks and watch them closely in the backyard.
- Cover trash cans and do not leave pet food outside, which can attract wildlife.
- Never feed, pet, or handle wild animals.