Health officials are expanding boundaries for a recent rabies alert in Pasco County.

The center of the rabies alert is located in southeast Pasco. The affected area is located west of County Road 535, south of Centennial Road, east of River Glen Boulevard and north of Chancey Road.

The rabies alert was expanded after a raccoon that was found outside of the previous boundaries tested positive for rabies.

Officials are warning all residents and visitors in Pasco County to be aware that rabies is present in the wild animal population, particularly among raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes.

Officials said domesticated animals are at risk if they are not vaccinated.

Residents 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.
  • Call your local animal control agency to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood.
  • Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract wild animals with open garbage cans or litter.
  • 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.

The alert is in effect for 60 days.

To report animal bites or scratches, call Pasco County Animal Services at 727-834-3216, 813-929-1212 or 352-521-5194.

For concerns regarding wild animals, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-863-648-3203.

For further information on rabies, go to http://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/rabies/index.html.