2nd rabies alert issued for Winter Park neighborhood

Orange County health officials issued a rabies alert on Wednesday in a Winter Park neighborhood, near Staunton Avenue and Biscayne Drive, after a raccoon tested positive for the disease.

This is the second rabies alerts issued for this area in the past two weeks, which is located east of Interstate 4, west of Orlando Avenue, and north of Orange Avenue. On March 15, a cat tested positive for rabies, near Formosa Avenue and Biscayne Drive.

The raccoon may have infected other animals in the area, officials said, asking residents to avoid contact with all stray or wild animals.

Officials at the Florida Department of Health in Orange County also asked residents to vaccinate their pets against rabies.

“Alerts are designed to increase awareness to the public. This alert should not give a false sense of security to areas that have not been named under this alert,” according to the health department.

Rabies affects the nervous system and is spread through saliva. It is fatal to animals and humans if not treated soon after exposure.

The health department issued the following advice to residents:

All pets should have current rabies immunizations.

Secure outside garbage in covered containers to avoid attracting wild animals.

Do not leave pet food outside. This also attracts other animals.

Avoid contact with all wildlife, especially feral cats, raccoons, bats, and foxes.

If bitten or scratched by a suspected rabid animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water, seek medical attention, and promptly report the incident to Orange County Animal Services (407) 254-9150.

Rabies is preventable when treatment is provided in a timely manner.

For general questions pertaining to animals, contact Orange County Animal Services (407) 254-9150.

For more information, visit the DOH website or the CDC.