News Release
For Immediate Release: September 25, 2009
Contact Person: Tina L. Buckel, R.S., 301-334-7760
Fourth 2009 Rabies Case in Garrett County Confirmed
Environmental Health Services of the Garrett County Health Department announces the fourth case of laboratory confirmed rabies for Garrett County for 2009. A raccoon fought with a currently vaccinated dog in the Swanton area. The property owner shot the raccoon and contained the dog without any human exposure. The dog will be revaccinated against the virus during the Garrett County Health Department sponsored rabies clinics which are being held this week.
The incident occurred on September 23, 2009 and the results were confirmed by the rabies laboratory in Baltimore on September 24, 2009. As there was not direct hand contact on the raccoon or the dog within two hours of the incident, the revaccination of the family dog is the only action needed by the property owner.
This case illustrates the importance of pet owners monitoring the vaccination status of their pets. Cats and dogs can be vaccinated against rabies at three months of age and are required to be vaccinated at four months. Ferrets need to be vaccinated annually. The Garrett County Health Department will conclude the final round of county-wide low cost rabies clinics on September 26, 2009. Spring clinics will not be held until approximately May of 2010. Pet owners in need of vaccinations against rabies are encouraged to contact local veterinarian clinics in order to keep their pets protected.
As always, the public is cautioned not to handle wildlife with bare hands and to use gloves if pets need to be handled within two hours of a known or suspected contact with wildlife. Anyone with questions regarding rabies should call Environmental Health Services of the Garrett County Health Department at 301-334-7760.