A raccoon that came in contact with a dog in South Stuart has tested positive for rabies. The dog was vaccinated, but as a precaution will be quarantined and monitored by Martin County Animal Control.

This is the first case of rabies in Martin County this year.

Rabies is a virus that is transmitted from the bite or scratch of a rabid animal.  Any mammal can get rabies. The most common carriers of rabies are raccoons, skunks, bats, foxes and coyotes. Domestic mammals can also get rabies.

Take the following precautions to prevent rabies:

• Make sure your pets are up to date with their rabies vaccinations.
• Do not feed or handle wild animals.
• If you see an animal acting strangely, call Martin County Animal Control at 772-463-3211.
• If you get bitten by an animal, wash the wound with soap and water for at least 5 minutes and see a doctor.
• Do not touch dead animals. Use gloves to remove and dispose of the animal properly.