Rabid raccoon attacked 2 people in Ocean City, health officials say

A raccoon that attacked two people in Ocean City this week has been confirmed as testing positive for rabies, the Worcester County Health Department said in a Friday news release.

On June 22, Ocean City police officers were flagged down by a female near 139th Street to report that she had been attacked by a rabid raccoon according to a Friday police press release. The female was treated by Ocean City EMS on the scene for injuries to her hand. The raccoon was not immediately located.

About five hours later, on June 23, a second female called 911 to report she was attacked by a raccoon near 141st Street, police said. Officers responded and met with the victim. She was transported to Atlantic General Hospital by Ocean City EMS for several injuries from the attack, OCPD said.

Officers established a perimeter in an attempt to corral the raccoon. Animal Control responded to the scene and was able to capture the raccoon, the police release states.

If a person has been bitten or scratched, they should seek immediate medical care, the health department warns. Post-exposure treatment is necessary to prevent rabies. If not treated, rabies is fatal. If a pet has had contact with this raccoon, contact your veterinarian immediately.

CRIMEJuvenile charged in Ocean City stabbing that sent three to hospital, police say

RABIESDeaths from rabies increased due to exposure to bats. They could have been prevented, CDC says.

For more information about rabies, visit http://www.worcesterhealth.org.

This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Rabid raccoon attacked 2 in north Ocean City