BOWIE, Md. — After a raccoon was caught and euthanized Sunday, the Bowie Police Department was asking anyone who came into contact with the animal to visit a medical center and get tested for rabies.

Police found the animal on the 4600 block of Mitchellville Road, after responding to a call that came about a raccoon "displaying abnormal behavior" at around 3 p.m., according to the Bowie P.D. X account.

Police also offered advice for anyone who sees a wild animal behaving unusually.

"Exercise caution, maintain a safe distance and call 911," Bowie Police said Sunday.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 60,000 Americans receive medical care after a potential rabies exposure each year.

The virus has been categorized as a "fatal but preventable" disease. Spread

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