BCHD PRESS RELEASE
Baltimore City Health Department
1001 E. Fayette Street • Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, Mayor
Leana Wen, M.D., Commissioner of Health

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

Jennifer Fuson

O: (410) 545-0823 C: (443) 401-8642

Raccoon Thrown Out of A Car Tests Positive for Rabies

BALTIMORE, MD (July 17, 2015) – On Wednesday, July 15th, araccoon that was thrown out of a silver sedan near 1610 E. Preston St. tested positive for rabies. If you think you know the driver or passengers in the vehicle please have them contact the City Hall Operator at 410-396-3100. An eyewitness saw the raccoon being tossed out of the sedan in a box and contacted Animal Control.

It is extremely important anyone who had contact with the raccoon to call the Baltimore City Health Department through the City Hall Operator as soon as possible for further investigation of possible exposure.

Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. It is usually spread to humans through the bite of an infected animal or getting saliva from an infected animal into an open wound or in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Rabies is not spread by petting a rabid animal or contact with blood, urine, or feces (stool).

To protect your family and pets from rabies:

  • Have your dogs, cats, and ferrets vaccinated regularly.
  • Do not let pets roam free.
  • Enjoy wildlife from a distance.
  • Teach children to stay away from animals they don’t know.
  • Cover garbage cans securely and do not leave pet food outside.
  • Prevent bats from entering your home.

Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. It is usually spread to humans through the bite of an infected animal or getting saliva from an infected animal into an open wound or in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Rabies is not spread by petting a rabid animal or contact with blood, urine, or feces (stool). Rabies are not spread by certain animals, including rodents (mice, rats, squirrels, etc.).

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If you are bitten by or exposed to an animal that may be rabid, you should:

  • Immediately wash the wound well with soap and water; if available, use a disinfectant to flush the wound.
  • Get prompt medical attention.
  • Report the exposure to your local health department.

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