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Warmer Weather Can Mean More Contact With Wild Animals And Rabies

Photo by Erwan Hesry on Unsplash

As the temperatures warm and more families head out doors, the Leon County Health Department is reminding residents to protect themselves from risk of rabies exposure by avoiding contact with wild animals. Christopher Tittel is a spokesman for the agency.

“Rabies is typically found in Florida in raccoons, bats, foxes and unvaccinated cats. But you can also find rabies in skunks, otters, coyotes, bobcats,” Tittel says.

Tittel says any animal that seems to be acting strangely could be infected. He recommends anyone who is bitten or scratched by a wild or stray animal seek medical care immediately. He also encourages people to protect their pets by ensuring they are properly vaccinated.

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Regan McCarthy covers healthcare and government in Tallahassee, Florida. She is the Assistant News Director for WFSU Public Media.

Phone: (850) 645-6090 | rmccarthy@fsu.edu

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