Rabies Alert Issued for Port Charlotte Area After Bat Tests Positive
PORT CHARLOTTE, FL — Charlotte County Animal Control, in coordination with the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County (DOH-Charlotte), has issued a 30-day rabies alert after laboratory tests confirmed that a bat found in the area tested positive for the rabies virus.
The alert is effective immediately and is centered around the McKee Street and Bennett Drive intersection in Port Charlotte, extending a one-mile radius in all directions, affecting nearby portions of S. McCall Road, Romford Avenue, Legend Street, and Isabell Avenue, among others.
“This alert serves as a reminder that rabies is present in the wild animal population and poses a risk to unvaccinated domestic animals,” said a public information officer for Charlotte County. Officials stress that while the alert is specific to the identified area, caution should be maintained countywide as rabies can occur anywhere.
⚠️ Urgent Call for Pet Vaccinations
Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system and is virtually 100% fatal once symptoms appear. It is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, usually via a bite or scratch.
The DOH-Charlotte and Animal Control are urging all residents and visitors to take immediate precautions:
Vaccinate Pets: Ensure all domestic animals, especially dogs, cats, and ferrets, have current rabies vaccinations.
Avoid Wildlife Contact: Do not touch, feed, or handle any wildlife, particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, and coyotes. Animals with rabies may act unusually tame or aggressive.
Secure Property: Do not leave pet food or garbage unsecured outdoors, as this can attract wild animals. Secure homes and buildings to prevent bats from entering living spaces.
Report Exposure: Anyone bitten, scratched, or exposed to the saliva of a wild or unfamiliar domestic animal must seek medical attention and immediately report the incident to Charlotte County Animal Control at 941-833-5690 or the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County at 941-624-7200.
Prompt action, responsible pet ownership, and vigilance are critical in preventing the spread of this serious, yet preventable, disease. For more information on rabies and preventative steps, residents can visit the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County website.
