DOH-Seminole Issues Rabies Alert

Sanford, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Seminole County (DOH-Seminole) is issuing a rabies alert in Seminole County in response to a confirmed case of rabies in a raccoon that was captured in the Tuskawilla community of Winter Springs on August 11. DOH-Seminole is monitoring rabies among wild animals in the area. All residents and visitors should be aware that rabies is currently present in the wild animal population.

People and domestic animals should always avoid physical contact with wild animals (e.g., raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, coyotes), which carry a higher risk of human exposure and a need for rabies post-exposure treatment. If you are exposed to rabies, receiving appropriate treatment after exposure will protect you from the risk of rabies.

This rabies alert is for 60 days and includes the following boundaries in Seminole County:

• East Florida 434 to the North
• Greenbriar Lane to the East
• Dinero Drive to the South
• Dunmar Circle to the West

Take the following precautions to prevent rabies exposure:

• Immunize your pets and livestock based on your veterinarian’s 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 Seminole County Animal Services at 407-665-5201.
• 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-Seminole by calling 407-665-3243.
• 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 Seminole County Animal Services at 407-665-5201.
• 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.

For more information on rabies, contact DOH-Seminole at 407-665-3243.