Rabies Alert Issued for Part of Melbourne
The Florida Department of Health in Brevard County has issued a 60-day rabies alert after a wild raccoon tested positive for the disease. The raccoon was captured near Andrews Avenue in Melbourne on August 27.
The alert applies to the area within the following boundaries:
- West Eau Gallie Boulevard to the north
- Sarno Road to the south
- Croton Road to the east
- North Wickham Road to the west
Residents should avoid contact with raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, coyotes and other wild or stray animals.
Pets should be kept under supervision and on a leash when outdoors. Owners should also make sure their pets and livestock are current on rabies vaccinations. Outdoor pet food and unsecured garbage can attract wildlife and should not be left accessible.
Anyone who is bitten or scratched by a wild or unfamiliar animal should wash the affected area immediately, seek medical attention and report the incident to the Florida Department of Health in Brevard County at 321-634-6337, option 3.
If a pet or livestock animal is bitten, contact a veterinarian immediately and notify Brevard County Animal Services at 321-633-2024.
West Nile Virus Detected in Brevard County
Health officials have also issued an alert after surveillance chickens in Brevard County tested positive for West Nile virus. Officials have not announced the specific area where the virus was detected.
The Florida Department of Health and Brevard County Mosquito Control have increased mosquito monitoring and are conducting targeted treatments and overnight spraying to help reduce the risk of transmission.
West Nile virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most infected people do not develop symptoms, but some may experience fever, headaches, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or a rash. In rare cases, the virus can cause serious neurological illness.
Residents can reduce their risk by:
- Emptying containers that collect standing water
- Using an EPA-registered insect repellent
- Wearing long sleeves and pants when mosquitoes are active
- Keeping window and door screens in good condition
- Avoiding outdoor activity around dusk and dawn when possible
Residents are also encouraged to report dead birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission because these reports can help health officials monitor West Nile virus activity.
Brevard County residents should remain alert, avoid unnecessary contact with wildlife and take sensible precautions against mosquito bites.
