Rabies virus is very deadly, with nearly 100% fatal illness in humans and other mammals.
The virus is present in some wildlife in Florida and can spread to unvaccinated pets, which then pose a high risk to the pet owner and their family. The main wildlife sources of rabies in Florida are raccoons and bats. Infected raccoons and bats can expose people, pets, livestock, and other wildlife to rabies, typically through bites.
Outside cats are by far the most common domestic animal found to have rabies in Florida largely because they are often not kept up-to-date on rabies vaccinations. Dogs, cats, and ferrets are required by law to be vaccinated against rabies in Florida.
The Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County’s (DOH-Charlotte) Epidemiology Program works closely with Charlotte County Animal Control to investigate animal exposures in Charlotte County, Florida, that may result in rabies infection.
Report a Possible Rabies Exposure
To report an animal bite or exposure to Charlotte County Animal Control, complete the Animal Bite Report form and fax it to 941-833-5691.
With the assistance of Animal Control, suspected rabid animals are quarantined and/or sent for laboratory testing to determine if they may have transmitted rabies to a human or pet through a bite or scratch.
DOH-Charlotte also consults with patients, physicians, and veterinarians regarding the current recommendations for treating a rabies exposure.
If you think you have been exposed to rabies, go immediately to the nearest emergency room for wound care and prophylaxis. For inquiries regarding rabies exposure, call DOH-Charlotte.
Pre-Exposure to Rabies
DOH-Charlotte offers pre-exposure immunization to individuals who may be at higher risk of being around an animal with rabies.
This includes individuals who:
- Work directly with animals that could have rabies (veterinary medicine providers, animal rehabilitators, animal control officers, etc.).
- Travel internationally to areas where rabies is common and access to medical care may be limited.
Pre-exposure rabies vaccine is a two-dose series and must be fully administered at least two weeks prior to travel.
Post-Exposure to Rabies
If you have been bitten, scratched, or exposed to an animal that has or is suspected to have rabies, go immediately to the nearest emergency room for wound care and prophylaxis.
The health care provider has the responsibility to determine whether rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is required, to counsel you on the risks and benefits of PEP, and to initiate PEP as appropriate and available.
Rabies PEP must be initiated in the emergency department. Individuals who have initiated PEP at an emergency department, may continue PEP with DOH-Charlotte. Please call DOH-Charlotte to schedule your remaining PEP.
Health care providers must report all animal bites in Charlotte County, Florida, to DOH-Charlotte regardless of treatment provided.