Anyone who has had contact with this animal should speak with their health care provider.
Frederick, Md (KM) The Frederick County Health Department says a groundhog picked up near the intersection of West Patrick Street and McCain Drive in Frederick on January 13th tested positive for rabies.
Officials say on Friday, January 9th, just before 9:00 PM, a community member thought the groundhog had bean hit by a car and moved it out of the roadway. Animal Control Officers were called to the scene to pick it up.
The Health Department says anyone who has had contact with this groundhog should consult with their health care provider, and contact the Health Services Office at 301-600-3342. . If their pets have had contact with this groundhog, they need to speak with their veterinarian.
Citizens are reminded that wildlife can live in residential areas, and the Health Department recommends humans avoid interaction or feeding wild animals.
Rabies is a viral disease which affects humans and other mammals through the saliva of the infected animal, usually through a bite.. Symptoms in animals can include fear of water, excessive salivation, failure to eat or drink, limping, unusually friendly or aggressive behavior; or atypical behavior such as nocturnal animals coming out during the day.
The Health Department also says rabies is fatal in humans if they’re infected, and no prompt post-exposure treatment takes place.
By Kevin McManus