10/23/2026
On Friday, October 23, 2026, the Harford County Health Department received confirmation from the Maryland Department of Health that a raccoon submitted by Harford County tested positive for the rabies virus.
Although this raccoon was found near the 1100 block of Timberlea Drive in Bel Air, Maryland, it may have exposed other persons and pets in the surrounding area. Witnessing a raccoon is not cause for alarm, but if you or your pets have had contact with a raccoon in this area, please contact the Harford County Health Department at 410-877-2300 for follow up.
This office would like to remind the citizens of Harford County of the following ways to protect themselves and their pets:
1) Always keep pets leashed when out for walks and closely monitored in your backyard.
2) All cats, dogs, and ferrets should remain up to date on their rabies vaccinations through their vet office or local rabies vaccination clinic.
3) Cover trash cans and do not leave pet food outside.
4) Avoid feeding, petting, or interacting with wildlife in any way.
5) Notify Harford County Animal Control at 410-638-3505 if you observe a stray animal showing abnormal behaviors such as excessive affection, aggression, lethargy or disorientation.
