A raccoon found off U.S. 441 and Southeast 132nd Street Road in the Belleview area has tested positive for rabies, prompting a public advisory from the Florida Department of Health in Marion County.
Health officials confirmed the case after the animal was killed on Feb. 24 in southeast Marion County. While only a single case has been identified, DOH-Marion said residents and visitors should assume rabies may be present in the local wild animal population.
Rabies is most commonly associated with raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes. Officials are urging the public to avoid physical contact with wild or stray animals and to keep pets properly vaccinated.
Pet owners are advised to follow their veterinarian’s recommended immunization schedule, keep animals on a leash or under direct supervision, and secure livestock on their property. If a wild animal bites a pet or livestock, owners should seek veterinary care immediately and contact Marion County Animal Services at 352-671-8727.
Anyone bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal should wash the wound and seek medical attention promptly. Exposures should also be reported to DOH-Marion at 352-629-0137.
Officials recommend removing outdoor food sources, securing garbage, and preventing wildlife, including bats, from entering homes or other occupied buildings.
More information about rabies is available at FloridaHealth.gov/Rabies or by calling DOH-Marion.
