Rabies Alert Issued in Orange County, Florida after Positive Raccoon Test
The Florida Department of Health in Orange County has issued a rabies alert for the Blanchard Park area of Orange County. The alert is in response to a raccoon testing positive for rabies on October 21, 2023. This marks the third instance of wild raccoons testing positive within the past three months, with one incident resulting in the death of a domestic canine. The latest positive animal exposed another domestic canine in a different part of Orange County.
The alert will remain in effect for 60 days, during which residents are urged to take precautions. The presence of rabies in the wild animal population puts domestic animals at risk, underscoring the importance of ensuring pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
The rabies alert area includes the Blanchard Park area and surrounding locations. Nonetheless, it is important to note that rabies activities may occur outside of this specific alert area. To minimize the risk of exposure, the public is advised to avoid contact with feral cats, stray dogs, and all wildlife, particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, and coyotes.
Rabies is a severe disease that affects the nervous system of warm-blooded animals, including humans. It is fatal if left untreated. The only treatment available for human exposure to rabies is rabies specific immune globulin and rabies immunization. Therefore, immediate medical attention is crucial following contact with a suspected rabid animal.
To protect against rabies, the Florida Department of Health in Orange County recommends the following precautions:
1. Ensure that all pets and at-risk livestock are current on their rabies immunizations.
2. Secure outside garbage in covered containers to deter wild animals from being attracted.
3. Do not leave pet food outside, as it may draw wildlife.
4. Minimize contact with all wildlife, especially feral cats, raccoons, bats, and foxes.
5. In the event of a bite or scratch from a suspected rabid animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water, seek medical attention, and report the incident promptly to Orange County Animal Services at 407-836-3111.
6. Prevent your pets from roaming freely and comply with leash laws. If your pet or livestock is bitten by a wild animal, seek veterinary assistance immediately and contact Orange County Animal Services.
7. Avoid handling, feeding, or unintentionally attracting wild animals by keeping outdoor food sources, such as uncovered trash or litter, properly secured.
8. Refrain from adopting wild animals or bringing them into your home.
9. Educate children to avoid handling unfamiliar animals, whether wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly.
10. Take measures to prevent bats from entering living spaces in homes, churches, schools, and other occupied areas where they could come into contact with people and pets.
By following these guidelines, residents and visitors can reduce the risk of rabies exposure and help maintain a safe environment for all.
