Florida Department of Health Issues Rabies Advisory After Infected Bat Captured in Rockledge

single confirmed case of rabies  in a bat that was captured in the area near 1700 Clubhouse Drive

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA—The Florida Department of Health in Brevard County (DOH-Brevard) is monitoring rabies in wild animals.

This is in response to a single confirmed case of rabies  in a bat that was captured in the area near 1700 Clubhouse Drive in Brevard County on  February 18.

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 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 food sources. 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; contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.  

■ Call your local animal control agency to remove stray animals from your neighborhood. Contact Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control at 321-633-2024.

■Prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, schools, and other areas where they might contact people and pets. 

For more information on rabies, please visit FloridaHealth.gov/Rabies or contact DOH-Brevard at 321-634-6337 option 3. 

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