VOLUSIA COUNTY, Florida. The Florida Department of Health in Volusia County issued a rabies warning after a cat in the area tested positive for the virus Tuesday.
The alert will remain active for 60 days and will focus on the Briarwood Mobile Estates in Port Orange. Parts of Port Orange, Allendale and Harbor Oaks are in the alert area. The limits are:
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Eastern border – Halifax River water body
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Northern Border – Oak Street –
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Southern border – Rose Bay water body
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Western Boundary – Country Lane and Taylor Road east of Country Lane
Those living, working, or visiting the area should be aware that rabies is present in the wild population and take the necessary precautions. All domesticated animals should be vaccinated against the virus.
Health officials gave the following advice to help prevent the disease:
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All pets should have a current rabies vaccination.
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Secure outdoor litter in covered bins to avoid attracting wildlife.
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Don’t leave pet food outside. This also attracts other animals.
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Avoid contact with all wildlife, especially wild cats, raccoons, bats, and foxes.
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If you are bitten or scratched by a rabid animal, immediately wash the wound with soap and water, seek medical advice, and immediately report the incident to Volusia County Animal Service.
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With timely treatment, rabies is preventable.
Anyone bitten or scratched by a wild animal should see a doctor immediately and report the injury to the Florida Department of Health in Volusia County at 386-274-0634.
Visit the Ministry of Health website or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on rabies.
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