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The Washington County Health Department has confirmed a positive rabies case in a cat discovered on the east side of Dual Highway, between Mt. Aetna Road and N. Edgewood Drive in Hagerstown, Maryland. This confirmation prompts a public health advisory for residents who may have come into contact with animals in the specified area.
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Individuals who have had potential exposure to any cats in the vicinity of East Dual Highway, Mt. Aetna Road, and N. Edgewood Drive, dating back to September 5th, are urged to contact the Washington County Health Department immediately. The department can be reached at 240-313-3210. Exposure is defined by the health department as a bite, scratch, or contact of an infected animal’s saliva or bodily fluids with a mucous membrane, such as the eyes.
Rabies is a serious viral disease that affects the central nervous system. While commonly associated with wild animals like raccoons, bats, and skunks, it can also affect domestic animals such as dogs and cats. Infected animals may exhibit significant behavioral changes, including increased aggression or unusual friendliness. Physical symptoms can include paralysis of throat and jaw muscles leading to drooling, and seizures. In humans, rabies can manifest as fever, headaches, unusual tingling sensations, confusion, difficulty swallowing, and an aversion to water, progressing rapidly to paralysis, coma, and ultimately, death. The disease is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear.
The Health Department reminds residents that rabies has been endemic in Maryland since 1983, emphasizing the importance of avoiding all wild and unfamiliar animals. For pet owners, maintaining an up-to-date rabies vaccination for animals that have regular contact with humans is the most effective method of protection for both families and their pets.
For further assistance or inquiries, residents can contact the Washington County Humane Society/Animal Control at 301-733-2060, the Washington County Health Department’s Nursing division at 240-313-3210, or the Environmental Health division at 240-313-3400.
Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Washington County Health Department
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