JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Duval County (DOH-Duval) on Thursday issued a rabies alert for the Westside area of Duval County after a rabid cat was found in the area. The alert is in effect through Aug. 1.
The rabies alert area is bordered on the north by HWY 134, on the south by Sandler Road, on the east by the Old Middleburg Road S, and west by HWY 23/First Coast Expressway.
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As a precaution, pet owners should always maintain control of their pets and be certain that each has received current rabies immunization shots from a licensed veterinarian, according to the health department.
Take the following precautions to prevent rabies exposure:
- 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 Animal Care and Protective Services at (904) 630-CITY (2489).
- 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-Duval by calling (904) 253-1280. · 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 Animal Care and Protective Services at (904) 630-CITY (2489). · 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.
For more information on rabies, please visit FloridaHealth.gov/Rabies or contact DOH-Duval at (904) 253-1280.