A raccoon found in northern Harford County has tested positive for rabies, prompting health officials to warn residents to monitor for possible exposure.

The Harford County Health Department said Monday it was notified by the Maryland Department of Health that a raccoon collected near the 2200 block of Nelson Mill Road in Jarrettsville tested positive for the virus. Officials said the animal may have exposed people or pets in the surrounding area.

Seeing a raccoon alone is not cause for alarm, health officials said. However, anyone who may have had contact with the animal — or whose pets may have had contact — is urged to call the Harford County Health Department at 410-877-2300 for guidance.

Health officials also remind residents to take basic precautions to reduce the risk of rabies exposure, including keeping pets leashed or supervised outdoors and ensuring cats, dogs and ferrets are up to date on rabies vaccinations. The disease is transmitted via infected saliva into the eyes, nose, mouth or an open cut.

Residents are advised to secure trash cans, avoid leaving pet food outside and refrain from feeding or interacting with wildlife. Stray animals displaying unusual behavior — such as aggression, excessive friendliness, lethargy or disorientation — should be reported to Harford County Animal Control at 410-638-3505.

Have a news tip? Contact Emerging News Editor Brian Carlton at bcarlton@baltsun.com.