Wicomico Co. Health Department Warns of Possible Rabies Exposure

The Wicomico County Health Department says on Monday, April 15 a raccoon tested positive for rabies in the area of Pemberton Drive near Pemberton Park in Salisbury.

The Health Department says they are advising residents to be aware of their surroundings and to avoid contact with all wild or stray animals.

Officials say that rabies is a preventable viral disease that exists in the saliva of infected mammals. It can be transmitted from animal to animal or from animal to human by biting and/or scratching. The virus can also be spread via licking, when infected saliva makes contact with open cuts or wounds, and with the mouth, eyes and nose. If left untreated in humans and animals, rabies can be fatal.

The Wicomico County Health Department will be hosting a Rabies Clinic at the Salisbury Moose Lodge on Tuesday, April 23. The clinic will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. and be provided for cats and dogs. It costs 10 dollars in cash only. Dogs must be secured on a leash and cats must be in a carrier box or box with air holes. Officials say only cats will be vaccinated. They stress that Maryland law requires all dogs and cats at for months of age or older to be adequately vaccinated against rabies.

For more information you can contact the Wicomico County Health Department at (410) 546-4446 or at wicomicohealth.org