Brevard County health officials issued a warning Thursday about increased risks of rabies and West Nile virus for residents. The alert follows a confirmed rabies case in a raccoon captured Aug. 27 near Andrews Avenue in Melbourne and recent positive test results in sentinel chickens. The county’s mosquito control program has also been using drones to combat potential mosquito-borne threats.
The rabies alert comes after the raccoon was found in the Melbourne area, prompting officials to urge residents to avoid contact with wild animals. Health department spokesperson Maria Lopez said the case highlights the need for caution, especially with raccoons and other wildlife. “If you see an animal acting strangely, stay away and call animal control,” she said.
Meanwhile, Brevard Mosquito Control has been conducting drone operations near Merritt Island Airport to spray insecticide. Similar efforts were seen Tuesday, though the program typically involves two drones operating at once. The county can deploy up to three drones simultaneously under FAA rules, according to Joseph Faella, a mosquito control technician.
Sentinel chicken testing has detected West Nile virus in several locations, triggering the health advisory. Officials recommend using insect repellent and eliminating standing water around homes. The county has not reported human cases of either disease, but the alerts emphasize vigilance.
The drone work is part of an ongoing effort to reduce mosquito populations, particularly in areas near the airport where spraying is permitted. Faella said operations are carefully monitored to comply with federal regulations. Residents near the Merritt Island area have seen drones in recent weeks, though the program’s impact on virus transmission remains under evaluation.