By NewsDesk    @infectiousdiseasenews

The Florida Department of Health in Seminole County (DOH-Seminole) is issuing a rabies alert for neighborhoods surrounding Altamonte Springs.

Image/pavelkraus

The alert is in response to a feral cat which tested positive for rabies in that area. Residents in the area near Bunnell Rd and Sunshine Lane bordered to the north by State Road 436, to the east by State Road 434, to the south by Maitland Blvd. and to the west by Eden Park Road should avoid contact with feral cats and other wildlife.

Residents and visitors in Seminole County should be aware that rabies is present in the wild animal population, and domestic animals are at risk if not vaccinated. Alerts are designed to increase awareness to the public. Please be aware that rabies activities can also occur outside the alert area. This rabies alert is for 60 days.

An animal with rabies could infect other wild animals or domestic animals that have not been vaccinated against rabies. All domestic animals should be vaccinated against rabies. Contact to feral cats, stray dogs and all wildlife particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes should be avoided.