Domestic Dog Tests Positive For Rabies in Florida

Pixabay photo for illustrative purposes only

​The Florida Department of Health in Columbia (DOH-Columbia) recently issued a rabies alert for parts of Columbia County following two recent positive cases. According to the press release, a domestic dog tested positive for rabies on March 5, 2024, while a raccoon tested positive on February 29, 2024.

The rabies alert will last for 60 days and encompasses specific areas within Columbia County, including:

- North boundary to NE Christie Street
- West boundary to NW Falling Creek Road
- South boundary to the Five Points area
- East boundary to NE Gum Swamp Road

Additionally, a second rabies alert area has been identified within the vicinity of SW Sisters Welcome Road, SR 247 Lake City area, East of State Road 247, and West of Highway 47.

Residents and visitors are urged to exercise caution as rabies is present in the wild animal population. It is advised to vaccinate all domestic animals against rabies and to avoid contact with wildlife, particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, and coyotes.

Rabies is a fatal disease affecting warm-blooded animals and humans. Treatment for human exposure includes rabies-specific immune globulin and rabies immunization.
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Precautions advised by DOH-Columbia include keeping pets under supervision, avoiding contact with wild or stray animals, and promptly seeking veterinary assistance if a pet is bitten. Residents are also encouraged to report stray animals to Columbia County Animal Enforcement and follow recommended vaccination schedules for pets.