The Florida Department of Health in Seminole County (DOH-Seminole) is issuing a rabies alert for neighborhoods surrounding All Faiths Memorial Park and Dew Drop Park in Casselberry.
The alert is in response to a raccoon which tested positive for rabies in that area. This rabies alert is for 60 days.
Residents and visitors in the area bordered to the north by West Panama Road on the east by East Lake Drive, on the south by South Eagle Circle, and on the west by South Lost Lake Lane should avoid contact with raccoons and other wildlife. If you, a family member or someone you know thinks that they were bitten or scratched by a raccoon, contact Seminole County Animal Services at (407) 665-5201 or the Florida Department of Health in Seminole County at (407) 665-3243.
An animal with rabies could infect other wild animals or domestic animals that have not been vaccinated against rabies. All domestic animals should be vaccinated against rabies. Contact to feral cats, stray dogs and all wildlife particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes should be avoided.
The following advice is issued:
- All pets should have current rabies immunizations.
- Secure outside garbage 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 bitten or scratched by a suspected rabid animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water, seek medical attention, and promptly report the incident to Seminole County Animal Services.
- Rabies is preventable when treatment is provided in a timely manner.
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