Baltimore County (WBFF) — A kitten found in the Jacksonville area of Baltimore County tested positive for rabies, and officials said one person was exposed to the animal.
Baltimore County Animal Services said the approximately 16-week-old orange male kitten was found in the 3300 block of Paper Mill Road and tested positive on Sept. 1.
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Anyone who may have had direct contact with the kitten, including through a bite, scratch or lick, should seek immediate medical evaluation and contact the Baltimore County Department of Health.
The department can be reached during regular business hours at 410-887-5963. After 4:30 p.m. on weekdays and on weekends, call 410-832-7182.
Rabies is a preventable disease, but only when exposures are reported promptly and vaccination practices are followed,” said BCAS Bureau Director Dr. René Varela. “Incidents like this highlight the importance of avoiding contact with unfamiliar animals and ensuring that pets remain current on their rabies vaccinations. Maintaining vigilance in the community is essential to protecting both animal and human health.
County officials urged residents to avoid handling stray, feral or unfamiliar animals, particularly those that appear sick.
They also advised people not to leave pet food or water outside for long periods, especially overnight, because it can attract wildlife and other animals.
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Pet owners should keep their animals current on rabies vaccinations and consult a veterinarian before adopting a stray or feral cat, officials said.
Baltimore County Animal Services said its Trap, Neuter, Return program requires community-cat colony caretakers to sterilize, vaccinate, ear-tip and microchip cats. The agency also offers free rabies booster vaccines for TNR cats.
A low-cost rabies vaccination clinic is planned for October.
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