Confirmed Case of Rabies Found in Pocomoke, Maryland

Pocomoke, MD - The Worcester County Health Department has confirmed a rabid fox in the vicinity of Colona Road in Pocomoke, Maryland. Health officials are urging residents to take immediate precautions following this discovery.

Residents who believe they, their family members, or pets may have had contact with the infected animal should contact the Worcester County Health Department's Office of Environmental Health immediately at 410-352-3234. Contact includes any bites, scratches, or other direct contact with persons or pets.

Health officials are requesting that residents report any sick animals or those displaying unusual behavior immediately. Additional rabid animals may be present in the area.

Residents should prevent contact between people or pets and wild animals by contacting Animal Control or local police immediately when such animals are observed.

The health department emphasizes that pet owners should not handle their animals if contact with a wild animal has occurred. All pets, particularly those that spend time outdoors, must have current rabies vaccinations.

To reduce the risk of exposure, residents are advised not to allow pets to roam freely or leave food outdoors. These practices attract wild and stray animals to residential properties.

Parents should educate children about staying away from wild animals and unfamiliar domestic animals.

For comprehensive rabies information, residents may visit www.worcesterhealth.org. Questions or information regarding this notice should be directed to Environmental Health at 410-641-9559.