Island Animal Hospital at Viera is an oasis for pets and their owners. As pet parents ourselves, we
02/25/2025
February 25, 2025
DOH-Brevard Issues Rabies Advisory
Viera, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Brevard County (DOH-Brevard) is monitoring rabies among wild animals in the area. This is in response to a single confirmed case of rabies in a bat that was captured in the area near 1700 Clubhouse Drive in Brevard County on February 18, 2025. All residents and visitors should be aware that rabies may be currently present in the wild animal population.
People and domestic animals should always avoid physical contact with wild animals (e.g.,raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, coyotes), which carry a higher risk of human exposure and a need for rabies post-exposure treatment. If you are exposed to rabies, receiving appropriate treatment after exposure will protect you from the risk of rabies.
Take the following precautions 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 Sherriff’s Office Animal Control 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.
Information on rabies
