Rabid Raccoon Discovered In Severna Park

SEVERNA PARK, MD — Anyone who may have come into contact with a raccoon near the intersection of Severn Place and Randell Road in the Round Bay Community of Severna Park needs to reach out to the Anne Arundel County Department of Health.

The raccoon, which was found Jan. 11, has tested positive for rabies. If anyone or a pet had contact with a raccoon, or a pet has unexplained wounds, please call the county health department at 410-222-7256 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 443-481-3140 after business hours.

Rabies is spread by the bite or scratch of an infected mammal, such as a groundhog, cat, fox, raccoon or bat. It is also spread when an 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.