Rabid Raccoon Found Near Oak Hall Road in Pocomoke

Worcester County, MD - A rabid raccoon has been confirmed near Oak Hall Road in Pocomoke, Worcester County, Maryland. The Worcester County Health Department issued an advisory urging residents in the area to take this seriously and act quickly if they've had any contact with the animal.

If you, a family member, or a pet has had any contact with the raccoon, call the Worcester County Health Department's Office of Environmental Health right away at 410-352-3234.

Contact means bites, scratches, or any direct interaction with the animal.

Rabies is fatal if not treated in time. That's why it's so important not to wait if you think you or your pet may have been exposed.

Residents are also being asked to keep an eye out for other animals acting strangely. When one rabid animal is found in an area, there's a good chance others nearby may be infected too.

If you see a sick or unusual-acting animal, do not approach it. Contact Animal Control or your local police or Sheriff's office instead.

If your pet has had contact with a wild animal, do not handle the pet until you've spoken with someone from Animal Control or the Health Department. This protects both you and your pet.

This is also a good time to check whether your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations. Maryland law requires that all dogs, cats, and ferrets over four months of age have a current rabies vaccine. If your pet's vaccine has lapsed, contact your vet as soon as possible.

There are a few simple things you can do to lower the risk of wild animals coming onto your property. Don't leave food outside, and don't allow your pets to roam freely. Food left outdoors draws in wild and stray animals, which increases the chances of your pets coming into contact with them.

It's also worth talking to your kids about this. Children should know not to approach wild animals or animals they don't recognize. Even an animal that looks calm or friendly could be sick.

The Health Department wants the community to stay alert but not panicked. These situations happen, and most risks can be avoided by taking the right steps early.

If you have any questions or information related to this advisory, contact the Worcester County Health Department's Office of Environmental Health at 410-352-3234.