In response to a confirmed a case of rabies in a cat found in the Mill Creek Woods area on Monday, the Florida Department of Health in Osceola County issued a rabies alert for parts of Osceola County.
The alert is in effect for the next 60 days in the areas bordered by Osceola Parkway, John Young Parkway, Florida's Turnpike and U.S. Highway 192. The rabid cat was captured off Orchid Lane.
"All residents and visitors should be aware that rabies is currently present in the wild animal population," the release from the DOH-Osceola reads.
Health officials urge people and domestic animals avoid contact with wild animals like raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, coyotes.
Those who are exposed to rabies should seek appropriate treatment after exposure to avoid the risks. According to DOH-Osceola, precautions to proven rabies exposure include:
- Immunize pets and livestock based on their recommended schedule. Keep pets under direct supervision and on a leash, and keep livestock secured on your property. If an animal bites your pet or livestock, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately, and contact Osceola Animal Services at 407-742-8000.
- Avoid contact with wild or stray animals. Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract them with outdoor pet food, open garbage cans or other sources of food. If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, seek medical attention and report the injury to DOH-Osceola by calling 407-343-2155.
- Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home; instead contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
- Call your local animal control agency to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood. Contact Osceola Animal Services at 407-742-8000.
- Prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, schools and other similar areas where they might come in contact with people and pets.
