OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Florida Department of Health in Marion County (DOH-Marion) has issued a rabies alert after one unvaccinated horse tested positive for the disease. The alert is for 60 days.

According to DOH-Marion, rabies is a deadly viral disease that can be prevented but not cured. They say the virus attacks the brain in warm-blooded animals, including people.

DOH-Marion says they don’t know the source of transmission and are currently investigating. Marion County residents who live or work in the impacted area are strongly advised to maintain a heightened awareness that rabies is active near them.

The area includes:

  • North of County Road 329. South of NW 142 Place. East of NW Gainesville Road. West of N US Hwy 441/301.

Health officials say an animal with rabies could infect other unvaccinated animals. Pets are also at risk if they are not vaccinated.

Rabies is passed through saliva typically through a bite.

If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, you’re urged to seek medical treatment and report the injury to DOH-Marion by calling 352-629-0137. Experts say the only treatment for human exposure is rabies-specific immune globulin and immunization. Appropriate treatment started soon after the exposure will protect an exposed person from the disease.

If your pet is bitten by a wild animal, seek immediate veterinary assistance, and contact Marion County Animal Services at 352-671-8727.

DOH-Marion recommends the following precautions to prevent exposure to rabies:

  • Avoid all contact with wildlife, particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes. Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.
  • Never handle unfamiliar animals (wild or domestic), even if they appear friendly.
  • Do not feed or unintentionally attract wild animals with open garbage cans or trash.
  • Keep rabies vaccinations current for all pets.
  • Keep pets under direct supervision so they do not come into contact with wild animals.
  • Prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, churches, schools, and other similar areas where they might encounter people and pets.