Countywide rabies alert extended after 6th animal tests positive for virus

A raccoon killed in unincorporated Bay County has tested positive for rabies. The raccoon was killed in the area between Laurie Avenue and Laird Circle. Six animals have tested positive for rabies in Bay County this year.

Now, the existing countywide rabies alert is extended for another 60 days. The alert was previously extended in March after a rabid raccoon was captured near East 11th Street and Everitt Avenue in the Cedar Grove area.

If you own a dog or cat over four months of age, it must be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian. Unvaccinated dogs and cats should be kept indoors. Health officials ask residents not to touch wild animals or stray cats or dogs.

If bitten or scratched by an animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water. Seek medical treatment as needed and report the injury to the Florida Department of Health in Bay County at (850) 872-4455. If the animal is stray or wild, call 911 or Bay County Animal Services at (850) 767-3333 and report the animal’s location.