Rabies Alert in Miami-Dade

Introduction to Rabies Alert

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) in Miami-Dade County has issued a rabies alert for an unincorporated part of the county after a horse tested positive for the disease, officials said.

The Health Department said the animal was tested on March 26 in unincorporated Miami-Dade County off of State Road 997 (Krome Avenue).

Boundaries of the Rabies Alert

Officials issued the alert two days later and it is valid for 60 days within the following boundaries:

• Northern boundary: SW 128th
• Southern boundary: SW 161st
• Eastern boundary: SW 177th (Krome Avenue)
• Western boundary: SW 197th

Monitoring and Awareness

"DOH-Miami-Dade is monitoring rabies among wild animals in the area," a news release reads. "All residents and visitors should be aware that rabies is currently present in the wild animal population." It was not immediately clear how the department became aware of the horse’s condition.

How to Prevent Rabies Exposure

The Department of Health urges residents to take the following precautions to prevent rabies exposure:

• Immunize 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 Miami-Dade Animal Services at 3-1-1.
• 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-Miami-Dade by calling 305-470-5660.
• Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home; instead, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
• Contact Miami-Dade Animal Services at 3-1-1 if you encounter any stray animals in your neighborhood that show signs of illness or disease.
• Prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, schools, and other similar areas where they might come in contact with people and pets.

Additional Information

For more information on rabies, please visit FloridaHealth.gov/Rabies or contact DOH-Miami-Dade at 305-470-5660.

Conclusion

The issuance of a rabies alert in Miami-Dade County after a horse tested positive for the disease is a critical reminder of the importance of vigilance and preventive measures against rabies. By understanding the boundaries of the alert and taking the recommended precautions, residents and visitors can significantly reduce the risk of exposure to rabies. It is essential for the community to be aware of the presence of rabies in wild animals and to take proactive steps to prevent its spread.

FAQs

• Q: What areas are affected by the rabies alert?
  A: The alert is valid for 60 days within the boundaries of Northern: SW 128th, Southern: SW 161st, Eastern: SW 177th (Krome Avenue), and Western: SW 197th.
• Q: How can I prevent rabies exposure?
  A: You can prevent rabies exposure by immunizing your pets, keeping them supervised, avoiding contact with wild animals, and not adopting them as pets.
• Q: What should I do if I encounter a stray animal?
  A: If you encounter a stray animal, especially one showing signs of illness or disease, contact Miami-Dade Animal Services at 3-1-1.
• Q: Where can I find more information on rabies?
  A: For more information on rabies, visit FloridaHealth.gov/Rabies or contact DOH-Miami-Dade at 305-470-5660.