Rabies persists in Somerset County and a vaccination is your pet’s only protection from the virus.
So far this year in Maryland, the top four animals that have tested rabid are raccoon, cat, bat, and skunk (in order highest to lowest).
Any animal bite, whether animal to human, or animal to animal, is a potential rabies exposure.
All potential exposures should be reported to the local Health Department as soon as possible.
Our Environmental staff works closely with Communicable Disease nurses for clinical investigation of potential human exposures.
To report a Somerset County incident, call the SCHD Environmental Health department at 443-523-1700 during normal working hours (8am – 5pm).
After hours, and on weekends or holidays, call the on-call phone at 443-859-4419.
There is always a member of the Environmental staff on-call to provide consultation relating to a possible rabies exposure.
CDC: About Rabies
CDC: Rabies in the United States: Protecting Public Health
In Maryland, all dogs, cats, and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies before 4 months of age.
Animal rabies clinics are offered in the spring and fall to provide for the economical vaccination of dogs, cats, and ferrets.
For animals to receive a 3 year vaccination, please present a current vaccination certificate. Otherwise, all shots will be for 1 year only.
Call 443-523-1700 for more information.
