A rabid raccoon was found in College Park, Maryland, sparking concerns and an alert from the Prince George’s County Health Department. The sick raccoon, captured alive on April 11 in the 5200 block of Iroquois Street, tested positive for rabies on Monday.
Officials are urging anyone who may have had contact with the raccoon to report it to the health department immediately. Rabies is transmitted through saliva, usually through bites or scratches, and post-exposure treatment should be started as soon as possible.
In light of this incident, residents are advised to avoid contact with unfamiliar animals and ensure that their pets are vaccinated for rabies. Officials also recommend monitoring pets while outdoors and not leaving pet food outside, as these can attract potentially rabid animals.
Each year, around 900 Marylanders receive preventative treatment for rabies. To stay updated on this developing story and other breaking news, residents can sign up for breaking news and daily headlines on the WTOP website.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being vigilant when it comes to potential rabies exposure. By taking necessary precautions and reporting any suspicious animal behavior, residents can help prevent the spread of this deadly virus.
