For Immediate Release:
March 19, 2021
Re: Confirmed Rabies in Cat in Smithsburg
The Washington County Health Department has confirmed rabies in a feral cat located in the 14000 block of Edgemont Road, Smithsburg, MD.
There are no known human exposures in the vicinity reported at this time. Exposure is defined as a bite, scratch, or contact of saliva from an infected animal with a mucous membrane, such as the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Health Department personnel have contacted individuals associated with the rabid feral cat and want to alert residents in the vicinity to the situation. Residents in the area are urged to exercise caution when dealing with feral cats and other unknown animals. Please contact the Washington County Health Department at the numbers listed below if you live in the vicinity of Edgemont Road, Smithsburg, MD and you have, or know of anyone who might have had, any possible human or animal exposure to the rabid cat.
Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the nervous system; it is predominantly seen in raccoons, bats, and skunks, as well as in dogs and cats (domestic animals).
Washington County residents are reminded that rabies has been well established in Maryland since 1983, and that all wild or unknown animals should be avoided whenever possible since the possibility of exposure to rabies can occur anywhere and anytime.
Pet owners should remember that the best way to protect themselves, their families, and their pets is to keep their pets and any other animals with which they come into routine contact up-to-date on rabies vaccination.
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Washington County Humane Society / Animal Control: 301-733-2060
Washington County Health Department – Nursing: 240-313-3290
Washington County Health Department – Environmental Health: 240-313-3400
Health Services/Public Information
240-313-3302 Voice 240-313-3391 TTY 240-313-3305 Fax
