Rabies virus is very deadly, with nearly 100% fatal illness in humans and other mammals.
The virus is present in some wildlife in Florida and can spread to unvaccinated pets, which then pose a high risk to the pet owner and their family. The main wildlife sources of rabies in Florida are raccoons and bats. Infected raccoons and bats can expose people, pets, livestock, and other wildlife to rabies, typically through bites.
Outside cats are by far the most common domestic animal found to have rabies in Florida largely because they are often not kept up-to-date on rabies vaccinations. Dogs, cats, and ferrets are required by law to be vaccinated against rabies in Florida.
Contact DOH-Martin for more information.
Report a Possible Rabies Exposure
Call the Florida Department of Health in Martin County at 772-221-4000.
Rabies Prevention
- Avoid direct human and domestic animal contact with wild animals.
- Have your veterinarian vaccinate pets and at-risk livestock, make sure you follow your veterinarian’s instructions for revaccination.
- Do not allow your pets to run free. Follow leash laws by keeping pets and livestock secured on your property.
- Never feed wild or stray animals-avoid attracting them with outdoors food sources. Feed your pets indoors.
- If your animal is attacked by a wild, stray or unvaccinated animal, DO NOT examine your pet for injuries without wearing gloves. DO wash your pet with soap and water to remove saliva from the attacking animal. DO NOT let your animal come into contact with other animals or people until the situation can be handled by animal control or county health department staff.
- Educate the public to reduce contact with stray and feral animals.
- Support animal control in efforts to reduce feral and stray animal populations.
- Provide pre-exposure prophylaxis for people in high-risk professions, such as animal control and veterinary personnel, laboratory workers, and those working with wildlife.
- Bat-proof homes.