City of Titusville, FL
11/18/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 11/18/2024 08:58
DOH-Brevard Reminds Residents to Avoid Rabies Exposure
November 15, 2024
DOH-Brevard Reminds Residents to Avoid Rabies Exposure
Contact: DOH-Brevard Communications
Viera, Fla.-While no recent rabies cases have been confirmed, the Florida Department of Health in Brevard County (DOH-Brevard) closely monitors potential cases of rabies among wild animals in our area, and we want to ensure that all residents and visitors are aware of this important issue.
Both people and domestic animals should avoid contact with wild animals, such as raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, and coyotes, as these animals are known to carry a higher risk of rabies exposure. If exposure does occur, prompt and effective treatment is available to protect individuals from rabies. We strongly encourage parents and guardians to educate their children, particularly teens and preteens who may spend time outdoors without direct adult supervision, about these risks and to instill habits that prioritize safety against rabies exposure. Your awareness and proactive measures can significantly contribute to keeping our community safe.
DOH-Brevard Contact Information
Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.: 321-634-6337 option 3
Weekends or after hours: 321-454-7101
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 secure livestock on your property. If an animal bites your pet or livestock, seek veterinary assistance 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; instead, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
• Call your local animal control agency to remove stray animals from your neighborhood. Contact Brevard County Sherriff's Office Animal Control at 321-633-2024.
• 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-Brevard at 321-634-6337 option 3.
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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.
Follow us on X at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health, visit FloridaHealth.gov.