Brevard County health officials issued a rabies alert on Sept. 3 after a raccoon captured near Andrews Avenue in Melbourne tested positive for the virus. The alert follows a confirmed rabies case in the animal, which was captured on Aug. 27. Officials are urging residents to avoid contact with wild animals and take steps to protect pets from exposure. The rabies alert comes alongside a separate health advisory for West Nile virus, after several sentinel chickens in the county tested positive for the disease. State and county officials are working together to monitor and reduce risks from both threats. Florida Department of Health (FDOH) officials said enhanced mosquito surveillance and targeted spraying are underway to curb disease transmission. Residents are being advised to avoid being outdoors during dawn and dusk, use mosquito repellent, and wear long sleeves and pants. The FDOH also asked people to report dead birds to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website. The rabies alert is part of ongoing efforts to track mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile, Eastern equine encephalitis, and St. Louis encephalitis. Brevard County Mosquito Control is conducting overnight spraying in affected areas. Health officials emphasized that securing pet food and trash to prevent wildlife contact is critical. The raccoon that tested positive was found in the Melbourne neighborhood off Andrews Avenue, a location officials have not yet specified further. Residents are being encouraged to check their properties for signs of raccoons or other wildlife and to contact animal control if needed. The combined alerts highlight the need for vigilance as temperatures remain warm, creating ideal conditions for mosquitoes and wildlife activity.