OCEAN CITY, MD – A woman who called 911 for an injury to her hand reported that she was bitten by a rabid raccoon.
On Wednesday, Ocean City police officers were flagged down by a female in the area of 139th Street to report that she had been attacked by a rabid raccoon. The female was treated by Ocean City EMS on the scene for injuries to her hand. The raccoon was not immediately located.
“Approximately five hours later, a second female called 911 to report that she was attacked by a rabid raccoon in the area of 141st Street,” police reported. “Officers responded and met with the victim. She was transported to Atlantic General Hospital by Ocean City EMS for several injuries from the attack. Officers established a perimeter in an attempt to corral the raccoon.”
Animal Control responded to the scene and was able to capture the raccoon.
Later, the Worcester County Health Department confirmed the raccoon tested positive for rabies this week.
“Health department officials warn that any person, pet or another animal that may have had contact with this raccoon could be at risk for rabies exposure,” WCHD said. “If a person has been bitten or scratched, they should seek immediate medical care. Post-exposure treatment is necessary to prevent rabies. If not treated, rabies is fatal. If a pet has had contact with this raccoon, contact your veterinarian immediately.”
To report any contact with or exposure to the raccoon, call the Worcester County Health Department immediately at 410-352-3234. If you call after hours or on the weekend, call Worcester County Emergency Services at 410-632-1311 to reach the health department’s on-call staff.