The Calvert County Health Department has issued a rabies alert for Solomons, Lusby, and St. Leonard after three wild animals tested positive for rabies in these southern Maryland communities. The confirmed cases, identified in raccoons and skunks during early November 2025, have prompted health officials to urge residents to take immediate precautions to protect their families and pets from potential exposure.
This rabies alert in Calvert County serves as a critical reminder that rabies remains a serious public health threat in Maryland. Pet owners in the affected areas must remain vigilant and ensure their animals are properly protected against this deadly viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals.
Understanding Rabies in Wild Animals Maryland
Rabies is a viral infection that attacks the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. In Maryland, the disease commonly circulates among wild animal populations, particularly raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes. The recent raccoon rabies cases in Solomons and skunk rabies in Lusby highlight the ongoing presence of this disease in local wildlife populations.
Wild animals infected with rabies may display unusual behavior patterns that make them more likely to come into contact with pets and humans. These animals might appear unusually aggressive or, conversely, show no fear of humans when they would normally be cautious.
Rabies Prevention for Pets During Local Outbreaks
Pet owners in the affected areas should take immediate steps to protect their animals. The most crucial protection is ensuring all pets receive current rabies vaccination Maryland pets require by law. Maryland pet rabies laws mandate that all dogs, cats, and ferrets receive rabies vaccines and regular boosters as recommended by veterinarians.
Beyond vaccination, pet owners should keep animals confined or on leashes when outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk hours when wildlife is most active. Securing garbage cans and removing pet food from outdoor areas helps prevent attracting wild animals to your property.
Signs of Rabies Infection in Pets and Wild Animals
Recognizing rabies symptoms in animals can help prevent exposure and protect your family. Early signs include behavioral changes such as increased aggression, unusual friendliness in typically shy animals, or disorientation. Physical symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, excessive drooling, and paralysis.
In wild animals, particularly concerning signs include nocturnal species being active during daylight hours, animals showing no fear of humans, or creatures displaying erratic movement patterns. Any wild animal exhibiting these behaviors should be reported immediately to animal control authorities.
What to Do If Bitten by Rabid Animal
If a person or pet is bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal, immediate action is essential. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes, then seek medical attention promptly. Healthcare providers can determine if rabies post-exposure treatment is necessary.
For pets exposed to potentially rabid animals, contact your veterinarian immediately. Depending on the pet's vaccination status, quarantine periods or additional medical intervention may be required. Pet quarantine for rabies exposure helps prevent the spread of the disease while monitoring for symptoms.
Free Rabies Vaccine Clinics Calvert County
The Calvert County Health Department and Animal Control services provide monthly free rabies vaccination clinics to help residents comply with vaccination requirements. These clinics require advance registration and offer an affordable way to protect pets against rabies exposure.
Local veterinary clinics also provide rabies vaccines year-round. Given the current rabies alert, pet owners should verify their animals' vaccination status and update boosters if needed.
Reporting Rabid Animals Calvert County
Residents who observe suspicious wildlife behavior should immediately contact Calvert County Animal Control or the Health Department. Quick reporting helps officials track potential rabies exposure areas and prevents further spread of the disease.
When reporting, provide specific location details, animal description, and observed behaviors. Do not attempt to capture or approach the animal yourself, as this creates unnecessary exposure risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the current areas in Calvert County affected by the rabies alert and which wild animals have tested positive?
The rabies alert covers Solomons, Lusby, and St. Leonard, with confirmed rabies cases in raccoons and skunks in these locations as recently as early November 2025.
How can I protect my pets from rabies during this local outbreak?
Ensure all pets are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations, keep them indoors or confined, avoid contact with wild or stray animals, and secure trash and pet food to not attract wildlife.
What signs of rabies should I look for in wild or domestic animals?
Look for unusual aggression, tameness, staggering movements, or nocturnal animals being active during the day, then report such animals to local animal control.
What should I do if my pet or family member is bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal?
Immediately wash the wound with soap and water for 15 minutes, seek prompt medical care for possible post-exposure prophylaxis, and report the incident to Calvert County Health Department and Animal Control.
Where can I get my pet vaccinated against rabies in Calvert County?
The Health Department and Animal Control offer monthly free rabies vaccination clinics with prior registration, and local veterinarians also provide rabies vaccines as required by Maryland law.
Staying Protected During Wild Animal Rabies Outbreaks Maryland
This rabies alert in Calvert County emphasizes the importance of proactive pet protection and community awareness. By maintaining current vaccinations, practicing safe outdoor habits, and staying informed about local wildlife activity, pet owners can significantly reduce rabies exposure risks.
Remember that rabies prevention is far more effective than treatment after exposure. Stay vigilant, keep pets protected, and report any concerning animal behavior to help protect the entire community during this ongoing public health alert.
