The Florida Department of Health in Martin County is monitoring rabies after two confirmed cases in raccoons.
Health officials advise residents and visitors to avoid contact with wild animals such as raccoons, bats, and foxes.
If bitten or scratched by an animal, individuals should seek immediate medical attention and report the incident.
The Florida Department of Health in Martin County is monitoring rabies among wild animals in the area, according to Renay Rouse, public information officer.
She said there have been two confirmed cases of rabies in raccoons that were killed between March 3 and March 9, 2026. in the areas of:
∎ Hobe Sound off Southeast Federal Highway between Dharlys Street and Southeast Washington Ave.; and
∎ Stuart near Jefferson Street and Southeast St. Lucie Boulevard.
The agency did not provide details about the incidents.
Residents and visitors should be aware that rabies may be present in the wild animal population, Rouse said in a news release.
People and domestic animals should always avoid physical contact with wild animals, such as raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes, which carry a higher risk of human exposure and a need for rabies post-exposure treatment.
If you are exposed to rabies, receiving appropriate treatment after exposure will protect you from the risk of rabies. The health offers these precautions:
∎ Immunize your pets and livestock based on your veterinarian’s recommended schedule.
∎ Keep pets under direct supervision and on a leash, and keep livestock secured on your property. If an animal bites your pet or livestock, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately and contact Martin County Animal Control at 772-463-3211.
∎ Avoid contact with wild or stray animals. Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract them with outdoor pet food, open garbage cans, or other sources of food. If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, seek medical attention, and report the injury to DOH-Martin by calling 772-221-4000.
∎ Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home; instead contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
∎ Call your local animal control agency to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood. Contact Martin County Animal Control at 772-463-3211.
∎ Prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, schools, and other similar areas where they might come in contact with people and pets.
For more information on rabies, visit FloridaHealth.gov/Rabies or contact Department of Health-Martin at 772-221-4000.
