ORLANDO, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Orange County on Thursday has issued a rabies alert for East Orlando near Dean Road and the Econlockhatchee River.

What You Need To Know

  • A rabies alert has been issued in East Orange County

  • An infected raccoon bit a dog near Dean Road and the Econlockhatchee River

  • The alert will remain in effect for 60 days, health officials said

  • Individuals or pets bitten by a wild animal should get immediate medical help

This rabies alert, which continues for 60 days, is in response to a pet dog that tested positive for rabies after an encounter with a raccoon.

The alert boundaries are:

  • University Blvd. to the north
  • East-West Expressway (State Road 408) to the south
  • Central Florida Greeneway (State Road 417) to the west
  • Alafaya Trail to the east

Rabies activities can also occur outside the alert area. Orange County residents and visitors should stay aware, and contact with feral cats, stray dogs and all wildlife particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes should be avoided.

People who are bitten are scratched by an animal in the rabies alert area or if a pet is bitten or scratched, clean the wound, seek medical attention immediately and contact Orange County Animal Services at 407-254-9150.

Rabies, a disease of the nervous system, is fatal to warm-blooded animals and humans. The only treatment for human exposure to rabies is rabies-specific immune globulin and rabies immunization. Appropriate treatment started soon after the exposure will protect an exposed person from the disease.

Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautions:

  • All pets and at-risk livestock should have current rabies immunizations.
  • Secure outside garbage in covered containers to avoid attracting wild animals.
  • Do not leave pet food outside.
  • Avoid contact with all wildlife, especially feral cats, raccoons, bats, and foxes.
  • Do not allow your pets to run free. Follow leash laws by keeping pets and livestock secured on your property. If your pet or livestock are bitten by a wild animal, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately and contact Orange County Animal Services at (407) 836-3111.
  • Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract wild animals with outdoor food sources such as uncovered trash or litter.
  • Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.