FELLSMERE — The Florida Department of Health in Indian River County has issued a 60-day rabies alert after a bat captured Sept. 24 near Sonrise Apartments in Fellsmere tested positive for the virus.
Stacy Brock, the county health department’s public information officer, confirmed the alert. The department said it captured the bat in the Sonrise Apartments area off Sonrise Place.
Officials said they are watching for rabies in wild animals in the area and warned residents and visitors that the virus is present in the local wildlife population.
People and pets should stay away from wild animals, including raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes. Those animals carry a higher chance of exposing a person and can lead to rabies post-exposure treatment, the department said. Treatment after a bite or other exposure can prevent the disease.
The health department advised residents to:
- Vaccinate pets and livestock on a veterinarian’s schedule.
- Keep pets on a leash and under supervision, and keep livestock secured. If an animal bites a pet or livestock, get veterinary care right away and call Indian River County Animal Control at 772-226-4799.
- Do not handle, feed, or draw in wild or stray animals with open garbage cans or outdoor pet food. Anyone bitten or scratched should get medical care and report the injury to the health department at 772-794-7472.
- Do not adopt a wild animal or bring one into a home. Call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator instead.
- Call animal control to pick up strays. You can reach Indian River County Animal Control at 772-226-4799.
- Keep bats and other wildlife out of homes, schools, and other occupied spaces.
Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms start. Health officials say that is why a bite, scratch, or other exposure should be reported immediately.