Politics & Government
Fatal Case of Human Rabies First in Maryland Since 1976
Fewer than five adults die from rabies in the United States each year.
The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene reports that it has confirmed the first human death from rabies in the state since 1976.
To protect the privacy of family, no information about the victim has been released. As of March 12, there were also no details about how the individual was exposed to the virus.
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According to the World Health Organization (WHO), rabies occurs in more than 150 countries/territories, and more than 55,000 people die from the virus each year, mostly in Asia and Africa.
WHO data shows that dogs are the source of the “vast majority” of human rabies deaths, and that wound cleansing and immunization within a few hours after contact with a suspected rabid animal can prevent death from the virus.
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WHO also says that more than 15 million people annually receive a post-exposure rabies vaccination.
If you suspect that you’ve encountered a rabid animal in Prince George’s County, contact the Department of Environmental Resources at 301-780-7200.