A part of Melbourne is under a rabies alert after a confirmed case was found in a raccoon off Andrews Avenue last week.
The Florida Department of Health says the rabies alert will last for 60 days for the following area:
- Northern boundary: West Eau Gallie Blvd
- Southern boundary: Sarno Road
- Eastern boundary: Croton Road
- Western boundary: North Wickham Road
The agency is asking residents to take these precautions, especially with their pets, 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 Services 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 sources of food. 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.
- Call your local animal control agency to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood. Contact Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services at 321-633-2024.