BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – Health officials in Brevard County are monitoring rabies among wild animals after a confirmed case in a bat on Feb. 18, according to a news release from the Florida Department of Health.
The rabid bat was captured in the area near 1700 Clubhouse Drive in Brevard County, the release said.
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Officials warn residents and visitors to be aware that rabies may be present in that area with the wild animal population. People and domestic animals should avoid physical contact with wild animals including raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, coyotes and more.
If exposed to rabies, receiving appropriate treatment after exposure will give protection from the risk of rabies.
The Florida Department of Health advises taking the following precautions to prevent rabies exposure:
- Immunize pets and livestock based on your veterinarian’s recommended schedule.
- Keep pets under direct supervision and on a leash, and keep livestock secured to the property. If an animal bites your pet or livestock, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately and contact Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control at 321-633-2024.
- Avoid contact with wild or stray animals. Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract them with outdoor pet food, open garbage cans, or other sources of food. If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, seek medical attention, and report the injury to DOH-Brevard by calling 321-634-6337 option 3.
- Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home; instead contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
- Call your local animal control agency to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood. Contact Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control.
- Prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, schools, and other similar areas where they might come in contact with people and pets.
For more information on rabies, visit the Florida Department of Health’s website here.