In an unusual incident, a 74-year-old man and a dog in Florida were attacked by a rabid otter. The attack occurred when the man was feeding ducks near his home. The otter suddenly approached him and chased him, causing multiple injuries. Later in the day, the otter attacked a dog from another family. The otter was eventually captured and euthanized, and it tested positive for rabies. This is the first reported case of otter rabies in Florida since 2010.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals. In most cases, it causes brain swelling and neurological symptoms that can be fatal. However, there is a vaccine available for both humans and domestic animals, which has helped reduce human cases in many countries. The vaccine is given to pets and livestock, and humans suspected of exposure can receive prophylactic treatment to prevent illness. While human rabies cases are rare in the U.S., it is still a problem in countries with low vaccination rates, and the virus continues to circulate in wildlife.
Although otters are not common hosts for rabies, there have been documented attacks by potentially rabid otters on humans. This recent incident highlights the importance of staying vigilant and taking necessary precautions when encountering wildlife. The man and the dog involved in the attack are receiving treatment and observation to prevent the spread of the virus.