Statement from Eugene Flinn, mayor of Palmetto Bay:

A rabies alert has been issued that covers Palmetto Bay.  Information is that a rabid otter bit a person and at least three other people were possibly exposed to the deadly disease in the area.

Information is from the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade.

This rabies alert covers these boundaries within Palmetto Bay:

• SW 144th Street to the North
• SW 184th Street to the South
• Biscayne Bay to the East
• US 1 to the West

Here are some tips from the Department of Health to avoid exposure:

• Keep rabies vaccinations up to date for all pets.
• Keep your pets under direct supervision so they do not come in contact with wild animals and contact Miami-Dade Animal Services at 3-1-1 if you have concerns.
• Call 3-1-1 to report any stray dogs in your neighborhood or private property. Owners can hire a nuisance wildlife trapper for removal of wildlife.
• If your pet is bitten by a wild animal, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately and contact Miami-Dade Animal Services at 3-1-1.
• Do not handle, feed or unintentionally atrract wild animals with open garbage cans or littler.
• Do not leave food sources out for wildfire such as pet food or unsecured garbage.
• Avoid contact with stray and feral animals.
• Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.
• Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly.
• Prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, churches, schools and other similar areas where they might come in contact with people and pets.
• Persons who have been bitten or scratched by wild or domestic animals should seek medical attention and report the injury to the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County at 305-324-2400.

For more information on rabies click here, call 305-324-2400 or call Miami-Dade County Animal Services at 3-1-1.