La Plata, MD (Jan. 11, 2025) – The Charles County Department of Health is warning residents and visitors of an increase in rabies cases over the past month. A raccoon in the vicinity of Charles Street and Penns Hill Road tested positive for rabies on December 22, 2024. More recently, a fox in the Cooksey Road and Penns Hill Road area, including La Plata and Dentsville, tested positive on January 9, 2025.
Residents are urged to avoid contact with wildlife and unknown animals. Rabies is a viral disease that can infect both animals and humans, typically spreading through saliva when a rabid animal bites or scratches another person or animal. Secondary exposure can occur when saliva from a rabid animal comes into contact with open wounds or mucous membranes, such as the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Protect Your Pets
Domesticated animals, including dogs, cats, and ferrets, are at risk of contracting rabies if they come into contact with infected wildlife, such as raccoons, foxes, skunks, bats, and opossums. Livestock may also be susceptible.
To protect pets and livestock, it is crucial to ensure their rabies vaccinations are up to date. Pet owners should contact their veterinarians to schedule vaccinations. Rabies clinics are also available at facilities such as the Charles County Animal Care Center (301-932-1713), Petco, Banfield, and Tractor Supply locations in the area.
Safety Recommendations
- Avoid approaching or handling wildlife and unknown animals.
- Teach children to stay away from wild animals and unfamiliar pets.
- Ensure pets are vaccinated and supervise them when outdoors.
- If you suspect exposure to rabies, contact your healthcare provider or veterinarian immediately.
The Charles County Department of Health continues to monitor the situation and urges the community to remain vigilant.
