On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, the Frederick County Health Department (FCHD) confirmed that a raccoon recovered from near Memorial Park in Thurmont, Maryland, tested positive for the rabies virus. The raccoon had been collected by Frederick County Animal Control on Friday, June 13, 2025, following a reported fight with a dog. A rabid raccoon was also captured earlier this week after biting two people in Silver Spring.
The FCHD advises residents to exercise caution when encountering wildlife, as these animals are known to inhabit residential areas. Experts recommend avoiding any direct interaction or the feeding of wild animals. Individuals who believe they may have had contact with this raccoon are urged to consult their health care provider immediately and notify the FCHD’s Community Health Services Office at 301-600-3342.
Additionally, if a pet has come into contact with a wild animal, owners should seek guidance from their veterinarian and inform the FCHD’s Environmental Health Office at 301-600-1717.
Rabies is a viral disease primarily affecting mammals and is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, typically via a bite. In animals, symptoms of rabies can include fear of water, excessive salivation, reluctance to eat or drink, limping, and unusual behavioral changes (such as increased aggression, or nocturnal animals appearing during daytime). The disease is nearly always fatal in humans if not promptly treated with post-exposure prophylaxis.
Barry Glotfelty, Director of FCHD’s Environmental Health Services, cautioned, “Mammals can be infected with the rabies virus, so do not touch or play with unknown animals. Also, make sure your pets are vaccinated.”
If you or your pets encounter a stray or wild animal, please report it to Frederick County Animal Control at 301-600-1544.