Third 2018 rabies case confirmed in Garrett County

Environmental Health Services of the Garrett County Health Department reports the third case of laboratory-confirmed rabies in Garrett County for 2018.

On July 6, 2018, an altercation occurred, in the Accident area, involving a raccoon and two dogs. One dog was currently vaccinated against rabies while the other dog had a lapsed rabies vaccination. By taking proper precautions, the owner was able to euthanize and collect the raccoon without being exposed to the rabies virus.

The raccoon specimen was submitted to the Maryland Department of Health Rabies Laboratory on July 9, with positive results for the rabies virus being received on July 10. Following standard protocol, both dogs received a rabies vaccination booster shot immediately after the incident. The dogs will be closely monitored under the owner’s control for the next 45 days.

“It is important to remember that if your pet is exposed to a wild animal, do not handle your pet within two hours after contact,” said Bryce Manges, environmental health specialist. “If it is necessary to handle your pet, wear protective gloves and immediately wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If you have been bitten by a wild animal that cannot be captured or exposed to an animal suspected of having rabies, seek medical treatment immediately.”

Pet owners are urged to check the vaccination status of their dogs, cats, and ferrets. All dogs and cats are required, by law, to be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age and can be vaccinated as early as three months.

The Garrett County Health Department will hold the third and final series of low-cost rabies clinics for 2018 in September. All dogs, cats, and ferrets at least three months of age are eligible for vaccination. Persons with questions regarding rabies or rabies clinics should call Environmental Health Services at 301-334-7760.

By Diane Lee, Public Information Officer, Garrett County Health Department