Cat Tests Positive For Rabies In Wesley Chapel; Alert Issued

WESLEY CHAPEL, FL -- The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County has issued a rabies alert for southwest Pasco County after a cat tested positive for rabies on March 19.

All residents and visitors in Pasco County should be aware that rabies is present in the wild animal population, and domestic animals are at risk if not vaccinated. The public is asked to maintain a heightened awareness that rabies is active in Pasco County.

The rabies alert is for 60 days. The center of the rabies alert is in the southwest area of Pasco and includes the following area boundaries:

- West of Madison Road

- South of Trouble Creek Road

- East of U.S. 19

- North of Sunray Road

An animal with rabies could infect other wild or domestic animals that have not been vaccinated against rabies. All domestic animals should be vaccinated against rabies and all wildlife contact should be avoided, particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes.

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.