Rabies Advisory Issued in Fort Pierce After Bat Incident at TouchStar Cinemas
Fort Pierce, Florida – The Florida Department of Health in St. Lucie County has recently issued a rabies advisory following a bat-related incident at TouchStar Cinemas in Fort Pierce. The agency is closely monitoring the presence of rabies among wild animals in the area, urging individuals who may have come into contact with a bat at the cinema to seek immediate treatment.
The incident occurred at TouchStar Cinema, located in Sabal Palm Plaza on South U.S. Highway 1. The state Department of Health is urging anyone who was present at the cinema and had contact with a bat to contact them promptly. “Receiving appropriate treatment quickly will protect you from the risk of rabies,” the agency emphasized in their news release.
To report any potential exposure or seek guidance, individuals can reach out to the agency from Monday to Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., at 772-462-3883. For emergencies during weekends or after hours, the number to call is 772-462-3800.
The agency is reminding people and pet owners to exercise caution and avoid physical contact with wild animals, particularly bats, as they pose a higher risk of transmitting rabies to humans. Rabies post-exposure treatment may be necessary in such cases.
To ensure the safety of both humans and pets, the following precautions are advised:
1. Keep pets under direct supervision and on a leash to prevent them from coming into contact with wild or stray animals. In the event of an animal bite, seek immediate veterinary assistance for your pet and contact the City of Fort Pierce Animal Control Division at 772-467-3720 during regular office hours or dial 911 outside of office hours.
2. Avoid any contact with wild or stray animals. Refrain from handling them, feeding them, or inadvertently attracting them with open garbage cans or litter.
3. If you come across stray animals in your neighborhood, promptly notify your local animal control agency for their safe removal.
4. Ensure that your pets are up-to-date on their vaccinations according to your veterinarian’s recommended schedule.
5. Take preventive measures to keep bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, schools, and similar areas where they may come into contact with people and pets.
For more comprehensive information on rabies and its prevention, please visit FloridaHealth.gov.
As the Florida Department of Health in St. Lucie County takes swift action to address the bat-related incident at TouchStar Cinemas, it is crucial for individuals who may have been exposed to take the necessary precautions and seek appropriate treatment. By following these guidelines, we can collectively ensure the safety and well-being of our community.
