Official Statement Regarding Recent Confirmed Case of Rabies
Queen Anne’s County officials are reminding residents to use caution when around feral animals and wildlife following a confirmed case of rabies involving a feral cat colony located on a farm in the area of Kling’s Lane in Church Hill.
The Queen Anne’s County Department of Health issued a public health advisory on October 16 and notified residents in the immediate area. Any trapping will be limited to the affected colony and conducted only as needed. At this time, there is no indication that the issue extends broadly into the Church Hill community.
Although the overall risk of rabies to the public remains low, we ask that residents remain vigilant, especially in areas where cases have been identified. Rabies is a deadly viral disease transmitted through a bite, scratch or the saliva of an infected animal, rabies is preventable through routine vaccination of pets and feral cats. While the public health risk is low thanks to these vaccination efforts, contact with an animal suspected of carrying rabies requires prompt medical attention.
Reported cases remain low, but the risk persists in unvaccinated feral cat colonies and wild animals. While widespread trapping of areas with no known cases is not standard practice, targeted areas of concern are investigated to prevent the spread of the disease. Additionally, any residents in areas of concern are notified directly.
Prevention is key and knowing what to do if an animal with suspected rabies is encountered remains the best defense.
This includes:
Prevention: Avoid approaching, handling, or feeding stray animals or wildlife, including raccoons, bats, and foxes. Ensure pets are up to date on rabies vaccinations and secure outdoor food sources.
Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR): If feeding a feral cat colony, ensure all cats in the community are vaccinated against rabies through local TNR programs or services.
Reporting & First Aid: Report unusual or aggressive animal behavior to Queen Anne’s County Animal Control at (410) 758-2393. If bitten or scratched, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water and seek prompt medical care.
Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to protect pets and prevent the spread of rabies.
Queen Anne’s County Animal Services will be offering a rabies clinic during the Fur Festival this Saturday, October 24 at the 4-H Park in Centreville from 12-3PM Book your appointment online at www.heart4animals.org, select Make An Appointment, then select Vaccine and Microchip appointment to see available times. If you are bringing in Feral Cats, please leave them in a trap for the safety of our staff.
For more information about how to protect yourself and pets from rabies, health.maryland.gov/rabies.
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