HAGERSTOWN, MD (Dec. 12, 2025) – The skunks recently reported as testing positive for rabies by the Washington County Health Department were located on Clevelandtown Road, Greendale Drive and Little Antietam Road; however, positive cases of rabies in the last five months have been reported throughout the county and in various species of wildlife.
Anyone who may have had contact/exposure with any skunks in the county – including scratches, bites or handling of the animal – from October to the present time, should contact the Washington County Health Department at 240-313-3210.
Because rabies regularly occurs in Maryland, it’s important that any bite/non-bite exposure from any animal – even in areas beyond where the recent skunks were located – should be reported, to ensure that a proper risk assessment is conducted.
In Maryland, rabies is most frequently found in wildlife, most commonly raccoons, foxes, skunks and bats, according to the Maryland Department of Health. Domestic animals, including livestock, are also at risk, and cats are the most frequently identified rabid domestic animal.
Rabies has been well-established in Maryland since 1983 and exposure can occur anywhere and anytime, so it’s important for everyone to stay safe –
- Observe wildlife FROM A DISTANCE.
- Pet owners – Please do not leave your dogs or cats outside and unattended after dark or roaming free. VACCINATE them against rabies. If your pet has been exposed to sick wildlife, wear gloves when handling your pet and please contact your veterinarian or the humane society/animal control to report the incident and for further instructions.
- A tipped ear on a feral or outdoor cat is a universal sign that it’s been humanely spayed/neutered and vaccinated. Other outdoor cats may or may not be vaccinated and should be observed from a distance.
- If you are bitten, immediately wash the wound well with soap and water and flush with disinfectant if it is available. Get prompt medical attention. Immediately report the exposure to the health department.
Rabies is almost always fatal. Please keep these important phone numbers on-hand if and when the need arises:
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
