Health department warns residents after rabid bat discovered in Severn

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, Md. (WBFF) — A bat discovered in Severn on Thursday tested positive for rabies, prompting the Anne Arundel County Department of Health to alert the community.

The bat was found on July 23, 2026, on a driveway at Bordeaux Court, officials reported.

Anyone or any pet that may have been in contact with the animal is encouraged to call the Health Department at 410-222-7254, Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., or 443-481-3140 after business hours.

Rabies spreads through bites or scratches from infected animals like groundhogs, cats, foxes, raccoons, skunks, or bats, as well as through contact with their saliva on a person’s or another animal’s eyes, nose, mouth, or open wounds.

Preventative treatment may be required for those who handled, fed, or were attacked by the infected animal.

The health department urges residents to take the following precautions:

• All pets should have current rabies immunizations.
• Do not allow your pets to run free.
• Secure outside garbage in covered containers to avoid attracting wild animals.
• Do not leave pet food outside.
• Avoid contact with all wildlife, especially feral cats, raccoons, bats and foxes.
• If bitten or scratched by a suspected rabid animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water, and seek medical attention.

For more information about rabies, go to AAHealth.org/rabies.