March 26, 2020
Re: Confirmed Rabies in Feral Cat in Smithsburg
The Washington County Health Department has confirmed rabies in a feral cat located in the vicinity of 144440 Edgemont Road, Smithsburg, MD.
There are known human exposures in the vicinity reported at this time. Exposure is defined as a bite, scratch, or contact of saliva or body fluids from an infected animal with a mucous membrane, for example, an eye.
Please contact the Washington County Health Department at 240-313-3210 if you have, or know of anyone that might have, any possible human or animal exposure.
Health Department personnel have contacted local residents in the vicinity of the incident to advise residents of the situation and urge caution when dealing with unknown animals. Please contact the Health Department if you live in the vicinity of 144440 Edgemont Road, Smithsburg, MD.
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 protection for themselves, their families, and their pets is an up-to-date rabies vaccination of animals with which they come into routine contact.
Washington County Humane Society / Animal Control: 301-733-2060
Washington County Health Department – Nursing: 240-313-3210
Washington County Health Department – Environmental Health: 240-313-3400
For more information on Rabies Prevention and Treatment visit our webpage
