Rabies warning issued

Rick Patrick

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The Florida Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Rabies Warning for Jefferson, Madison and Taylor Counties in response to a confirmed case of the disease in a raccoon on Wednesday, June 26. Visitors and residents should exercise caution and be aware that rabies may be present in the wildlife population.

“People and pets should always avoid physical contact with wild animals, especially bats, as they pose a higher risk to humans and require post-exposure rabies treatment,” said DOH representative Lisa Hayes. “If you are exposed to rabies, appropriate post-exposure treatment will protect you from the risk of rabies.”

The 60-day warning has the following limits:

• Northern border: Interstate 10

• Southern border: US Highway 19 to County Road 14

• Eastern border: US Highway 221

• Western boundary: County Road 257

To prevent infection with rabies, you can take several precautions:

• Keep all pets under direct supervision and on a leash. Keep all livestock on your property secure to minimize contact with wild or stray animals. If a wild animal bites your pet or livestock, seek veterinary attention immediately.

• Keep your pet’s vaccinations up to date, including rabies vaccination.

• Avoid contact with wild or stray animals. Do not touch or feed animals, or inadvertently attract them with open garbage cans or garbage. If you are bitten or scratched by a wild or domesticated animal, seek medical attention immediately.

• Call your local animal control to remove stray animals from your neighborhood. In Jefferson County, call animal control at (850) 342-0184. In Madison County, call animal control at (850) 973-4001.

• Prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering occupied areas of homes or other buildings where they may come into contact with people or pets.

To report exposure, please call the DOH – Jefferson County at (850) 342-0170. In Madison County, please call (850) 973-5000. For more information on rabies, visit FloridaHealth.gov/Rabies.