CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (December 10, 2025) – Charlotte County Animal Control, working with the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County, has issued a 30-day rabies alert after a bat in the McKee Street and Bennett Drive area of Port Charlotte tested positive for the virus.
The alert covers a one-mile radius from the intersection of McKee Street and Bennett Drive.
East: Portions of S. McCall Road, Oarsman Street, Hideaway Place and all areas extending one mile east of the intersection.
West: Legend Street, Coliseum Boulevard and Wilmington Boulevard, including all locations within one mile west of the intersection.
North: Romford Avenue, Foresman Boulevard, Gillot Boulevard and David Boulevard, covering all areas within one mile north of the intersection.
South: Portions of Isabell Avenue, Martha Avenue, Overton Avenue and Sailors Way, covering all areas within one mile south of the intersection.
Officials said the alert is a reminder that rabies remains present in wild animal populations and poses a risk to unvaccinated domestic animals. Although the alert applies to the designated area, rabies can occur anywhere in Charlotte County and residents are urged to use caution.
Recommended actions include keeping pet vaccinations current, avoiding contact with wildlife, securing trash, and not feeding wild animals. Residents should also prevent bats from entering homes or buildings and report animal bites or scratches immediately to Charlotte County Animal Control at 941-833-5690 or the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County at 941-624-7200. Pets that are bitten or exposed should receive prompt veterinary care and be reported to Animal Control.
Officials said rabies is fatal but preventable and that quick response and responsible pet ownership help protect the community.
More information is available through the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County or Charlotte County Animal Control.
