World Rabies Day is September 28, 2018, and the Florida Department of Health in Orange County (DOH-Orange) seeks to bring awareness of this global health observance. The theme is “Share the message, Save a life.”  

While rabies is a 100 percent preventable disease, more than 59,000 people die from the disease around the world each year. World Rabies Day is an opportunity to educate and control this deadly disease. 

DOH-Orange wants to encourage prevention by reminding residents - Wild animals belong in nature, not in your hands. If you come in contact with an unfamiliar animal of any kind, even if it is deceased, DO NOT touch it. Call 3-1-1 to assist in removing the animal. In the case of contact, call your doctor and report the incident to Orange County Animal Services (407) 254-9150 and to DOH-Orange’s Environmental Health at 407-858-1497. 

On Thursday, September 27, 2018, DOH-Orange’s Epidemiology program will give a presentation on rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and bite prevention at the Health and Wellness Expo located at the Fashion Square Mall, 3201 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

 Rabies Prevention Tips:

• All pets should have current rabies immunizations.
• Secure outside garbage in covered containers to avoid attracting wild animals.
• Do not leave pet food outside. This attracts other animals.
• Avoid contact with all wildlife, especially feral cats, raccoons, bats, and foxes.
• If bitten or scratched by a suspected rabid animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water, seek medical attention, and promptly report the incident to Orange County Animal Services (407) 254-9150.
• Rabies is preventable when treatment is provided in a timely manner.
• For general questions pertaining to animals, contact Orange County Animal Services (407) 254-9150.