BARTOW, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Polk County (DOH-Polk) has issued a rabies alert after officials confirmed a case in an unvaccinated cat captured Saturday in Winter Haven.
At this time, officials are monitoring rabies among wild animals in the area, DOH-Polk said in a release. All Polk County residents should be aware that the disease is present among wild animals in their area.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines rabies as a viral disease that is deadly in people who don't seek medical attention immediately. The disease is spread to humans and pets through bites or scratches from an infected animal.
The rabies alert will reportedly last for 60 days in the following areas within the county, according to DOH-Polk:
- Northern boundary: US Highway 92
- Southern boundary: Ave. G NW
- Eastern boundary: Boys Club Road/W Lake Cannon Drive
- Western boundary: 42nd St. NW
To prevent rabies exposure, DOH-Polk says residents should:
- Immunize your pets and livestock based on your veterinarian's recommended schedule.
- Keep pets under direct supervision and on a leash, and keep livestock secured on your property. If an animal bites your pet or livestock, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately and contact Polk County Sheriff's Office Animal Control at (863) 499-2600.
- Avoid contact with wild or stray animals. Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract them with outdoor pet food, open garbage cans, or other sources of food. If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, seek medical attention, and report the injury to DOH-Polk by calling 863-519-8300
- Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home; instead, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
- Call your local animal control agency to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood. Contact Polk County Sheriff's Office Animal Control at (863) 499-2600
- Prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, schools, and other similar areas where they might come in contact with people and pets
Anyone needing more information on rabies can call DOH-Polk at 863-519-8300 or click this link.