Residents warned about rabies exposure

A sudden spike in reported animal bites has forced the Santa Rosa County Health Department to caution residents.

With the recent increase in animal bites in Santa Rosa County the health department wants to remind residents to use caution with wild animals and unfamiliar domesticated animals to reduce the risk of exposure to rabies.

“For the month of November we had 3 reported bites that required rabies prophylaxis.  None of the bites were related,” said Debbie Stilphen, Public Information Officer with the Santa Rosa County Health Department. “: In November 2009, we only had 1. 

“This is an increase in the number of bites compared to this time last year, so we decided to be pro-active and remind residents to take precautions to avoid potential exposure to rabies.”

 Rabies is a disease that affects the central nervous system.  The virus is carried in the saliva of infected animals and is usually transmitted to people and other animals through a bite or scratch.  Most cases of rabies occur in wild animals such as raccoons, foxes, skunks and bats, but domesticated animals can carry it as well.  The disease is fatal to humans and animals.

The following precautions should be taken to avoid exposure to rabies: 

· Avoid all contact with wild and unfamiliar domesticated animals.

· Do not place feeders in the yard – the food will attract unwanted animals such as raccoons and foxes.

· Vaccinate your pets against rabies and keep their shots up-to-date.

· Do not leave your pets outside unsupervised.

· Bring in pet food at night and secure trash cans with fasteners.

· Cover bird feeders.  Most squirrel-proof coverings also deter wild animals.

If bitten, seek medical attention immediately and report the incident to the Santa Rosa County Health Department at (850) 983-5200 between the hours of 8:00a.m. and 5:00p.m. Monday through Friday, or after hours call (850) 418-5566. 

If you see a suspicious animal in your yard or neighborhood, please call animal control at (850) 983-4680.  If a dead wild animal is on your property, please contact the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission’s regional office at (850) 265-3676, or their 24-hour law enforcement hotline at (888) 404-3922.