CHARLES COUNTY, Md. — The Charles County Department of Health is alerting residents and visitors after a skunk in Port Tobacco and a bat in Waldorf tested positive for rabies on Aug. 21, 2026.
The skunk was identified in the vicinity of Plenty Highlands Place in Port Tobacco. Anyone who or whose pet recently had contact with a skunk from that location is asked to call the Charles County Department of Health at 301-609-6768.
In a separate case, a bat tested positive for rabies in the vicinity of Green Woods Lane in Waldorf. Anyone who or whose pet recently had contact with a bat from that area should also contact the health department at 301-609-6768.
Health officials are urging everyone to avoid contact with unknown animals and wildlife. Rabies is a disease of animals and people that is spread through the saliva of a rabid animal. Usually, this occurs when a rabid animal bites or scratches a person or animal.
Secondary exposure can occur from saliva on the coat or fur of an animal that was exposed to a rabid animal. The virus can get into the body through open cuts or wounds, or through the eyes, nose or mouth.
Domesticated animals like dogs, cats and ferrets can contract rabies from wild animals such as raccoons, foxes, skunks and bats. Getting pets vaccinated against rabies will prevent them from contracting the disease. Livestock may also be infected with rabies, and residents should contact their veterinarian for information on rabies and livestock vaccination.
Health officials also stressed the importance of teaching children to stay away from wild and unknown animals.
A current rabies vaccination for pets is vital. Rabies vaccines are available through veterinarians and at local businesses including Petco, Banfield and Tractor Supply.
The Charles County Department of Health and Charles County Animal Control will also host free drive-through rabies clinics for dogs, cats and ferrets on Sunday, Oct. 18, and Sunday, Nov. 15. The clinics will be held at 10425 Audie Lane in La Plata from 10 a.m. to noon.
Pet owners should bring their previous rabies certificate to receive a three-year vaccine.
For questions about the clinics, contact 301-609-3425 or 301-609-6751.
That’s all in WALDORF