This is Paul Janensch with a Treasure Coast Essay about rabies – the infection that is carried by animals and can kill humans if left untreated. In 2015, St. Lucie County recorded nine cases of rabid animals – the highest in the state. Six raccoons, one bat, one cat and one dog. Normally, the county has two cases a year. Indian River County recorded one case. And Martin County recorded two cases. All raccoons. Florida recorded 76 cases, mostly raccoons.
Scores of people on the Treasure Coast were advised to get anti-rabies shots after being scratched or bitten. The shots are effective but expensive. Rabies can spread from wildlife to domestic dogs and cats. So have your pets vaccinated. If you see an animal acting strangely, tell your county animal control. And keep your distance from all wildlife animals. This is Paul Janensch.
