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Health officials issue rabies warning for Oceanway/Northside area of ​​Duval – Action News Jax

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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Duval County (DOH-Duval) has issued a rabies alert for the Northside/Oceanway region.

The affected area is bordered by Scarborough Road to the north, New Berlin Road to the south, Yellow Bluff Road to the east and Burton Island Way to the west.

The warning, which is valid until August 12, was issued after a rabid cat was discovered in the area.

The Ministry of Health stated that as a precautionary measure, pet owners should always keep their animals under control and ensure that each animal has received the current rabies vaccination from a licensed veterinarian.

Wild animals such as raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes should always be avoided. The Department of Health stated that they pose a higher risk when in contact with humans and that rabies treatment is required after contact.

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If you have been exposed to rabies, prompt treatment will protect you from the risks associated with the disease.

The DOH asks the public to take the following precautions to prevent contracting rabies:

Take the following precautions to prevent infection with rabies:

  • Vaccinate your pets and livestock according to the vaccination schedule recommended by your veterinarian.
  • Keep pets under direct supervision and on a leash, and keep livestock safe on your property. If an animal bites your pet or livestock, seek immediate veterinary attention for the animal and contact Animal Control Services at (904) 630-CITY (2489).
  • Avoid contact with wild or stray animals. Do not touch them, feed them, or inadvertently attract them with outdoor pet food, open garbage cans, or other food sources. If you are bitten or scratched by a wild or domesticated animal, seek medical attention and report the injury to DOH-Duval at (904) 253-1280.
  • Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home. Instead, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
  • Call your local animal control agency to remove stray animals from your neighborhood. Contact Animal Control Services at (904) 630-CITY (2489).
  • Prevent wildlife, including Batsfrom entering living spaces or occupied areas in homes, schools and other similar areas where they may come into contact with people and pets.

For more information on rabies, see FloridaHealth.gov/rabies or contact DOH-Duval at (904) 253-1280.

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