PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. (WWSB) – Charlotte County Animal Control and the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County have issued a 30-day rabies alert after a bat in Port Charlotte tested positive for rabies.
The bat was found near McKee Street and Bennett Drive. The alert covers a one-mile radius around the intersection, including portions of South McCall Road and surrounding streets to the east, Legend Street and nearby roads to the west, Romford Avenue and several boulevards to the north, and portions of Isabell, Martha, and Overton Avenues and Sailors Way to the south.
A case of rabies was found in a bat in Charlotte County.(WWSB)
County officials said the case is a reminder that rabies is present in wild animals and can threaten unvaccinated pets. They said rabies can occur anywhere, including in Charlotte County.
Officials recommend that residents and visitors keep their pet rabies vaccinations current, avoid contact with wildlife, secure homes against bats, and report animal bites or exposures to Charlotte County Animal Control at 941-833-5690 or the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County at 941-624-7200.
Stray or suspicious animals should be reported to Animal Control. Anyone whose pet is bitten or exposed to wildlife should seek immediate veterinary care and notify Animal Control.
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