MARION COUNTY, FL (352Today.com) – The Florida Department of Health in Marion County (DOH-Marion) has issued a rabies alert, for a region in the Anthony area off NE 70th St. The alert was issued in response to a confirmed case of rabies in a racoon that was killed.
The area of the rabies alert
- Northern boundary: NE 86 Lane
- Southern boundary: NE 56 St.
- Eastern boundary: NE 33 Court
- Western boundary: Old US Highway 301
The alert will remain in place for 60 days. Residents are reminded to always avoid contact with wild animals, and keep their pets away as well.
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 Marion County Animal Services at 352-671-8727.
- 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-Marion at 352-629-0137.
- 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 Marion County Animal Services at 352-671-8727.
- 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, contact DOH-Marion at 352-629-0137 or click here.