NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — A rabies alert has been issued in Pasco County after a cat tested positive for the virus.
The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County said the 60-day rabies alert affects residents in the following boundaries:
- West of Madison Road
- South of Trouble Creek Road
- East of U.S. 19 Hwy
- North of Sunray Road
Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautions:
- Keep rabies vaccinations up to date for all pets.
- Keep your pets under direct supervision so they do not come in contact with wild animals. If your pet is bitten by a wild animal, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately.
- Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract wild animals with open garbage cans or litter or by leaving pet food outside.
- Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.
- Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly.
- Prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, churches, schools, and other similar areas, where they might come in contact with people and pets.
- If you are bitten by any animal seek care promptly. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. Go to your family doctor or hospital for medical attention immediately.
- Contact Pasco County Animal Services at (727) 834-3216, (813) 929-1212, or (352) 521-5194 to report animal bites or scratches.
- Contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 863-648-3200 for concerns about wild animals.
To report a bite or exposure incident, complete this form.
