Press Release
FEBRUARY 14th, 2005
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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CONTACT: TIM O’CONNOR
PHONE:561-355-3576
FAX:561- 355-3035
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HYPOLUXO
ISLAND, FL -State of
Florida, Department of
Health Laboratory in Lantana
confirmed today that a
raccoon found dead in a
backyard on Hypoluxo Island
was rabid. This latest
incident had secondary
exposure to two individuals.
The couple came in contact
with their dogs that had
been fighting with the
raccoon. This brings the
2005 rabid animal total to
five, four raccoons and a
domestic cat.
Animal care and control representatives distributed flyers to
the residential community on
the island. This year the
other rabid animals were
found in Lake Worth and
Boynton Beach.
“All should be aware that rabies does exist in our county and
that domestic animals should
be vaccinated against this
disease,” said Health
Department Director Dr. Jean
Malecki.
The dogs in this incident were current with their rabies
shots but the people, as a
precaution, will be given
the series of five rabies
shots because of their
contact with the blood and
saliva on the dogs.
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that can be prevented but
not cured. The virus attacks
the nerves and brain tissue
of warm-blooded animals
including people.
Person’s that have been in contact with or bitten by a
potentially rabid animal
should report to their
nearest medical provider,
hospital or Palm Beach
County Health Department at
561-840-4500.
Domestic animals, dogs and cats, over four months of age are
required to be vaccinated
against rabies and wear a
current rabies license tag.
Rabies shots are available
through a veterinarian or by
calling Animal Care and
Control at
561 233-1272.
####.
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