Lee County Domestic Animal Services is asking Lee County residents and visitors to be aware that rabies is present in the wild animal population and domestic animals are at risk if not vaccinated.

The public is asked to maintain a heightened awareness, check to see pets’ vaccinations are up-to-date and avoid interacting with or feeding wildlife and feral animals. One raccoon from the mid-island section of Fort Myers Beach recently tested positive for the disease.

The state Department of Health has not issued an official rabies alert. State alerts are not typically issued for isolated incidents.

An animal with rabies could infect other wild or domestic animals that have not been vaccinated against rabies.

In Florida, raccoons, bats, foxes and unvaccinated cats are the animals most frequently diagnosed with rabies. Other animals that are at high risk for rabies include skunks, otters, coyotes, bobcats and stray or unvaccinated dogs and ferrets.

Anyone who is bitten or scratched by wild animals or strays should report the incident to their doctor immediately, then to DOH-Lee at 239-332-9580.

Source: Lee County Government