March 17, 2026
DOH-Martin Issues Rabies Advisory
Contact:
Renay Rouse
Renay.Rouse@FLHealth.gov
772-631-6008
Martin County, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Martin County (DOH-Martin) is
monitoring rabies among wild animals in the area. This is in response to two confirmed cases of rabies in raccoons that were killed in the areas of Hobe Sound off SE Federal Highway between Dharlys St. and SE Washington Ave. and in Stuart near Jefferson Street and SE St. Lucie Blvd. between March 3 and 9, 2026. All residents and visitors should be aware that rabies may be currently present in the wild animal population.
People and domestic animals should always avoid physical contact with wild animals (e.g., raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, coyotes), which carry a higher risk of human exposure and a need for rabies post-exposure treatment. If you are exposed to rabies, receiving appropriate treatment after exposure will protect you from the risk of rabies.
Take the following precautions to prevent rabies exposure:
- Immunize your pets and livestock based on your veterinarian’s recommended schedule.
- Keep pets under direct supervision and on a leash, and keep livestock secured on your
property. If an animal bites your pet or livestock, seek veterinary assistance for the
animal immediately and contact Martin County Animal Control at 772-463-3211. - 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-Martin by calling 772-221-4000.
- 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 Martin County Animal Control at 772-463-3211.
- 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, please visit FloridaHealth.gov/Rabies or contact DOH-Martin at 772-221-4000.
About the Florida Department of Health
The Department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to
protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state,
county, and community efforts.
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Department of Health, visit FloridaHealth.gov.