(Martin County, FL) – A raccoon that came in contact with two dogs in Sewall’s Point has tested positive for rabies. The dogs were vaccinated and will receive a booster. As a precaution, the dogs are quarantined and monitored by Martin County Animal Control.
This is the second case of rabies in Martin County this year. The first also involved a raccoon and occurred in January in Stuart.
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. Cats are the most frequently reported rabid domestic animal in the United States.
Ways 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.
For more information, log on to: www.cdc.gov/rabies, or https://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/rabies/index.html
