The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County has issued a 60-day rabies alert for a portion of Pasco County following a confirmed case of rabies in a raccoon.
The rabid raccoon was killed in the Zephyrhills area off Alston Avenue on January 30. Health officials are actively monitoring rabies activity among wild animals in the area and urge residents and visitors to remain vigilant. Rabies is currently present in the local wildlife population.
The rabies alert applies to the following boundaries in Pasco County:
• North: South Avenue
• South: Tucker Road
• East: Zephyrhills Airport
• West: Gall Boulevard
Rabies is a serious viral disease that affects the nervous system and can be fatal if untreated. People and domestic animals should always avoid physical contact with wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, and coyotes, which pose a higher risk of exposure. If exposure occurs, prompt medical treatment can prevent rabies.
DOH-Pasco recommends the following steps to protect yourself, your family, and your animals:
• Vaccinate pets and livestock according to your veterinarian’s recommended schedule.
• Supervise pets and keep them on a leash; ensure livestock are secured on your property. If your pet or livestock is bitten, seek veterinary care immediately and contact Pasco County Animal Services at 813-929-1212.
• Avoid contact with wild or stray animals. Do not handle, feed, or attract them with outdoor pet food or unsecured trash.
• If you are bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, seek medical attention and report the injury to DOH-Pasco at 352-521-1450, Option 4.
• Do not adopt wild animals or bring them into your home. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator instead.
• Report stray animals in your neighborhood to Pasco County Animal Services at 813-929-1212.
• Prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering homes, schools, and occupied buildings where they could come into contact with people or pets.
For additional details about rabies and prevention, visit FloridaHealth.gov/Rabies or contact DOH-Pasco directly at 352-521-1450.
Residents in the affected area are encouraged to stay alert and take recommended precautions throughout the duration of the rabies alert.