Rabies Alert Issued in Martin County, Florida Following Raccoon Cases

The Florida Department of Health in Martin County is closely monitoring for rabies after confirming two cases in raccoons during the first week of March 2026. Health officials are urging residents and visitors to exercise caution and avoid contact with wild animals.

Confirmed Cases and Locations

According to Renay Rouse, Public Information Officer for the Florida Department of Health in Martin County, the two confirmed rabies cases were found in raccoons that were euthanized between March 3 and March 9, 2026. The locations of these cases are:

• Hobe Sound, off Southeast Federal Highway between Dharlys Street and Southeast Washington Ave.
• Stuart, near Jefferson Street and Southeast St. Lucie Boulevard.

Rabies Risk and Precautions

Health officials emphasize that rabies is present in the wild animal population and poses a risk to both people and domestic animals. Individuals should avoid physical contact with wild animals such as raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, and coyotes.

If bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, immediate medical attention is crucial. Prompt treatment after exposure is essential to prevent the development of rabies.

Precautions to Accept:

• Pet and Livestock Immunization: Ensure pets and livestock are vaccinated against rabies according to your veterinarian’s recommended schedule.
• Supervision and Security: Keep pets under direct supervision and on a leash. Secure livestock on your property. If an animal bites your pet or livestock, seek immediate veterinary care and contact Martin County Animal Control at 772-463-3211.
• Avoid Wildlife Contact: Do not handle, feed, or attract wild or stray animals with food sources like outdoor pet food or open garbage cans.
• Report Bites and Scratches: If bitten or scratched by an animal, seek medical attention and report the incident to the Department of Health-Martin at 772-221-4000.
• Do Not Adopt Wild Animals: Never adopt or bring wild animals into your home. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator instead.
• Animal Control: Call Martin County Animal Control at 772-463-3211 to remove stray animals from your neighborhood.
• Prevent Entry into Homes: Prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering living quarters or occupied spaces.

Additional Information

For more information on rabies, visit FloridaHealth.gov/Rabies or contact the Department of Health-Martin at 772-221-4000.