A groundhog found near the 1400 block of Bowles Terrace in Forest Hill has tested positive for rabies, according to CBS Baltimore. The report said the case was the 25th confirmed rabies case among animals in Harford County this year. Health officials are asking people who may have encountered the groundhog, or pets that may have encountered it, to call 410-877-2300.
The warning follows a separate incident involving a bat found inside St. Margaret’s Elementary School. CBS Baltimore reported that the bat was captured September 1 and tested positive the next day. These incidents involve different species and locations; they do not, by themselves, establish that rabies cases are increasing countywide.
What counts as a possible exposure
The Maryland Department of Health says rabies is usually spread through the bite of an infected animal. Infected saliva entering an open wound or contacting the eyes, nose or mouth can also create an exposure risk. People should avoid handling wildlife and contact the county health department if they believe they or a pet had contact with the groundhog.
Residents are also being advised to keep dogs, cats and ferrets current on rabies vaccinations, keep pets leashed or confined, secure trash and avoid leaving pet food outdoors. Anyone who sees a stray animal showing possible signs of rabies, such as unusual aggression, excessive friendliness, lethargy or disorientation, should contact Harford County Animal Control at 410-638-3505.
Wildlife vaccination is part of the response
Harford County’s prevention efforts also include an oral rabies vaccination program. CBS Baltimore reported that the program planned to distribute more than 15,000 bait containers, primarily for raccoons. The Anne Arundel County Health Department says oral rabies vaccination has been used successfully in Maryland since 1998 to help control raccoon rabies. The program is a wildlife-control measure and does not change the need for residents to avoid contact with wild animals or keep pets vaccinated.
