A raccoon found in Port Tobacco tested positive for rabies, according to a September 1 report from the Charles County Health Department. The positive result was confirmed on Monday, August 31, 2026. Authorities are working to identify any people or pets that may have had contact with the animal near Mary Drive and Shirley Boulevard.
The Health Department is requesting that anyone who had recent contact with a raccoon in that area, or whose pets may have been exposed, contact the Charles County Health Department at 301-609-6768. Health officials noted that rabies is a viral disease transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, typically via bites or scratches, though it can also enter through open wounds or mucous membranes.
Authorities recommend that residents avoid contact with wild animals, including foxes, skunks, and bats. They also advise teaching children to stay away from wildlife and keeping pet vaccinations up to date. Signs of infection in animals can include changes in behavior, such as aggression or unusual docility, as well as difficulty swallowing, excessive drooling, or paralysis.
The Port Tobacco incident is part of a series of rabies cases in Maryland during 2026. In Harford County, an alert was issued on August 24 after a groundhog tested positive for rabies near the 3800 block of Old Federal Hill Road in Jarrettsville. To combat the spread, Harford County Health Department has implemented an oral vaccination program using more than 15,000 baits.
In Virginia, health authorities are maintaining surveillance due to multiple cases. Fairfax County has confirmed at least 11 animal rabies cases so far in 2026, including a stray cat in the Alexandria area in March. In Henrico County, a fox was confirmed to have rabies in July after potential contact with a dog.
Charles County will host two free drive-through rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats, and ferrets this fall. These clinics will be held from 10 a.m. to noon at 10425 Audie Lane, La Plata, on Sunday, October 18 and Sunday, November 15. Residents seeking three-year vaccinations must present a previous vaccination certificate. For more information, residents can call 301-609-3425 or 301-609-6751.
