Martin County reports first rabies case of 2014
A bat that came in contact with a resident of South Stuart has tested positive for rabies. The incident occurred over the weekend and the victim is receiving post exposure rabies treatment, according to a Martin County Health Department press release today.
Image/CDC
This is the first case of rabies in Martin County this year.
Rabies is an acute viral infection that is transmitted to humans or other mammals usually through the saliva from a bite of an infected animal. It is also rarely contracted through breaks in the skin or contact with mucous membranes.
According to the Control of Communicable Diseases Manual, all mammals are susceptible to rabies. Raccoons, skunks, foxes, bats, dogs, coyotes and cats are the likely suspects. Other animals like otters and ferrets are also high risk. Mammals like rabbits, squirrels, rodents and opossums are rarely infected.
Cats are the most frequently reported rabid domestic animal in the United States.
Related: Bats, rabies, fungi and your home: A few words with Get Bats Out President, Michael Koski
The Martin County Health Department offers the following preventive measures to avoid exposure:
- Make sure your pets are up to date with their rabies vaccinations.
- Do not feed or handle wild animals.
- If you see an animal acting strangely, call Martin County Animal Control at 772-463-3211.
- If you get bitten by an animal, wash the wound with soap and water for a least 5 minutes and see a doctor.
- Do not touch dead animals. Use gloves to remove and dispose of the animal properly.
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