Introduction to Rabies in Broward
Rabies has been confirmed in the wild animal population of Broward, prompting the Florida Department of Health in Broward County to issue a 60-day rabies alert for parts of the county. A rabid raccoon was killed in Davie, leading to the alert, which warns residents and visitors that rabies is currently present in the wild animal population. The infected raccoon was killed near Interstate 595 in Davie, but the health department did not specify the exact location.
Affected Areas in Broward County
The 60-day alert includes areas within the following boundaries in Broward County:
- Northern boundary: Interstate 595
- Southern boundary: Southwest 26th Street
- Eastern boundary: Southwest 112th Avenue
- Western boundary: Southwest 148th Avenue
Residents and visitors within these boundaries are advised to be aware of the presence of rabies in the wild animal population.
Understanding Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease that is spread through bites or scratches from an infected animal. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, bats, skunks, raccoons, and foxes are among the most common animals in the U.S. to be found with rabies. The disease rarely affects humans in the U.S., with fewer than 10 deaths reported annually.
Prevention and Treatment
If someone is exposed to rabies, immediate medical care called post-exposure prophylaxis is required. Treatment includes wound care and four or five rabies vaccines that are needed as soon as possible after exposure. The Florida Department of Health recommends several measures to prevent exposure, including immunizing pets and livestock, supervising pets on leashes, avoiding contact with wild or stray animals, calling local animal control to remove stray animals, and preventing wildlife from entering living spaces.
Recent Rabies Cases in Florida
Between January and June of this year, there were over 50 reported rabies cases in animals in Florida, according to data from the health department. While Broward and Palm Beach counties had not reported any cases during that time frame, Miami-Dade County reported one infected goat. In 2024, there were no reported rabies cases in Broward, Palm Beach, or Miami-Dade counties, with a total of 110 confirmed cases statewide, most commonly in raccoons and bats.
The Florida Department of Health has documented just over 50 rabies cases in animals statewide between January and June this year. (Florida Department of Health/Courtesy)
Conclusion
The confirmation of rabies in the wild animal population of Broward County is a significant concern for public health. By understanding the risks and taking preventive measures, residents and visitors can minimize their exposure to rabies. It is essential to follow the recommendations of the Florida Department of Health and to seek immediate medical care if exposure occurs.
FAQs
- Q: What is rabies, and how is it spread?
A: Rabies is a viral disease spread through bites or scratches from an infected animal. - Q: What are the symptoms of rabies in animals?
A: Symptoms can include aggression, foaming at the mouth, and unusual behavior, but these can vary widely. - Q: How can I protect myself and my pets from rabies?
A: Immunize your pets, supervise them on leashes, avoid contact with wild or stray animals, and call local animal control to remove stray animals. - Q: What should I do if I am exposed to rabies?
A: Seek immediate medical care, which includes wound care and a series of rabies vaccines. - Q: How common is rabies in humans in the U.S.?
A: Rabies rarely affects humans in the U.S., with fewer than 10 deaths reported annually.
