Health Alert: Marion County FL Dept. of Health issues rabies warning after horse tests positive

Michelle Shore
·1 min read
2

The Florida Department of Health in Marion County said after an unvaccinated horse tested positive for rabies the source of transmission is currently under investigation.

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According to a news release, the incident took place in Reddick. An Animal with rabies could infect other animals that have not received a rabies vaccination.

Domestic animals are at risk if they are not vaccinated; rabies is always a danger in wild animal populations., Bill Thompson, Public Information Officer at the Florida Department of Health in Marion County said.

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Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautions to prevent exposure to rabies:

  • Avoid all contact with wildlife, particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes. Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.

  • Never handle unfamiliar animals (wild or domestic), even if they appear friendly.

  • Do not feed or unintentionally attract wild animals with open garbage cans or trash.

  • Keep rabies vaccinations current for all pets.

  • Keep pets under direct supervision so they do not come into contact with wild animals.

  • Prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, churches, schools, and other similar areas where they might encounter people and pets.

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If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, seek medical attention and report the injury to DOH-Marion by calling 352-629-0137

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