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For Release Wednesday,
31st July, 2002 |
CONTACT: TIM O’CONNOR |
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PHONE:561-355-3576
FAX:561- 355-3038
KAREN BUCHANAN
, ANIMAL
CARE & CONTROL,
561-233-1280
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RIVIERA BEACH, FL—A Rabies Alert has been issued by the Palm Beach County Health Department following another attack by a rabid animal. The alert covers the following areas: south to Lantana Road, west to Highway 441, north to Lake Worth Road, and then to Flying Cow Road to Seminole Pratt Road and then north to Beeline Highway. The eastern boundary is the Atlantic Ocean and the northern boundary is the Martin County line.
This alert is the result of a confirmed case of rabies in a stray wild cat, which occurred Sunday at Ocean Reef Park on Singer Island in Riviera Beach. A woman was attacked and bitten while trying to rescue the cat. She will receive a series of shots. The Health Department requests that anyone who had direct contact with any animals in the park after July 1 to call the department at 840-4564.
To assure the health and safety of County residents, Ocean Reef Park will be closed through Friday, re-opening Saturday, August 3rd. County officials have secured the park during this time.
The latest case brings the number of human exposures to six, the total rabid animals to 21. 2001 had a total of 14 rabid animals, which makes this year one of the largest since the 1950’s. Dr. Jean Malecki, Health Department Director, continues to warn residents about feeding or handling wildlife, and other stray animals.
Securing garbage cans and other containers around the house can also help eliminate food sources and reduce the risk of non-domestic animals being around humans.
The 21 confirmed animal rabies cases have been found from Boca Raton to Jupiter; 90% are in the area where the rabies alert has been declared.
Domestic animals, dogs and cats, over four months of age are required to be vaccinated against rabies and wear a current rabies license tag. Shots can be obtained through a veterinarian or by calling Animal Care and Control at
561 233-1272.
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