Rabies alert issued for the Seminole County area after a raccoon tests positive

SEMINOLE COUNTY, Florida – A rabies alert was issued for part of Seminole County after a raccoon tested positive for the disease, according to health officials.

Florida Department of Health officials in Seminole County said the alert, which was issued Monday, includes neighborhoods surrounding All Faiths Memorial Park and Dew Drop Park in Casselberry.

“Residents and visitors in the area bordered to the north by West Panama Road to the east by East Lake Drive, to the south by South Eagle Circle, and to the west by South Lost Lake Lane should avoid contact with raccoons and other wildlife.” Health officials said in a press release.

Authorities said the alert is for 60 days and is intended to raise awareness within the community, but warned that rabies activity may also take place outside of the areas mentioned in the alert.

“Residents and visitors in Seminole County should know that rabies is present in the wild animal population, and pets are at risk if they are not vaccinated,” health officials said.

An animal with rabies can not only affect other wild animals but also domestic pets. Health officials say that all pets should be vaccinated against the disease and should avoid contact with feral cats, stray dogs, and all wildlife, particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, wildcats, and coyotes.

What is rabies?

“Rabies is a disease of the nervous system that can cause paralysis and is fatal to warm-blooded animals and humans,” according to Seminole County health officials.

How is it spread?

“The virus is transmitted through saliva, and humans can become infected through a bite wound, scratch, or exposure of a new cut or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth) to the saliva of a rabid animal,” health officials say.

Can it be treated?

According to health officials, it can be prevented if treated in a timely manner.

“The only treatment for human exposure to rabies is specific rabies immunoglobulin and rabies immunization,” health department officials said. “Appropriate treatment that was started shortly after exposure will protect an exposed person from the disease.”

How can I protect my family?

The Florida Department of Health in Seminole County offers the following tips to protect residents and pets from disease:

• All pets must have current rabies vaccinations.
• Secure outdoor trash in covered containers to avoid attracting wild animals.
• Do not leave pet food outside. This also attracts other animals.
• Avoid contact with all wildlife, especially feral cats, raccoons, bats, and foxes.
• If an animal suspected of rabies bites or scratches it, immediately wash the wound with soap and water, seek medical attention, and immediately report the incident to Seminole County Animal Services.

Anyone who thinks they may have been bitten or scratched by a raccoon should call Seminole County Animal Services at 407-665-5201 or the Florida Department of Health in Seminole County at 407-665-3243.