Rabies Alert: Rabid raccoon confirmed in Harford County

A raccoon found near the 2300 block of Shuresville Road in Darlington tested positive for rabies, the Harford County Health Department said Thursday.

The county said the animal may have exposed people or pets in the surrounding area.

What’s Happening: The health department said it got confirmation Thursday from the Maryland Department of Health that a raccoon submitted by Harford County tested positive for the rabies virus.

What’s Important: The health department said seeing a raccoon is not cause for alarm. But if you or your pets had contact with a raccoon in the area, call the Harford County Health Department at 410-877-2300 for follow up.

What to do: The health department urged residents to:

• Keep pets leashed on walks and watch them closely in backyards.
• Keep cats, dogs, and ferrets up to date on rabies shots through a veterinarian or a local rabies vaccination clinic.
• Cover trash cans and do not leave pet food outside.
• Avoid feeding, petting, or interacting with wildlife.
• Call Harford County Animal Control at 410-638-3505 if you see a stray animal acting abnormally, including excessive affection, aggression, lethargy, or disorientation.