SOUTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) - Florida health officials have extended a rabies alert in the Kendall area for an additional 60 days after two more raccoons tested positive for the virus.
The Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County confirmed the finding in a statement issued on Saturday.
Officials said these are the fourth and fifth rabid raccoons confirmed in the county this year. Health officials are working with Miami-Dade Animal Services to identify any residents who may have been exposed to the virus.
The rabies alert is in effect for:
- Southwest 152nd Street, to the north
- Southwest 187th Street, to the south
- Southwest 117th Avenue, to the east
- Southwest 137th Avenue, to the west
Rabies is a disease of the nervous system and can be fatal to warm-blooded animals and humans.
If you believe your pet has been bitten by a wild animal, health officials advise you seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately and contact Miami-Dade Animal Services.
State health officials listed the following safety precautions area residents should observe:
- Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract wild animals with open garbage cans or litter
- Do not leave food sources out for wildlife such as pet food or unsecured garbage
- Avoid contact with stray and feral animals
- Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home
- Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly
- Prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, churches, schools, and other similar areas
For further information, click here. You may also call the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County at 305-324-2400 or Animal Services at 311.
For a list of wildlife trappers, click here.
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