A Kissimmee neighborhood is under a 60-day rabies alert after an unvaccinated cat found near Academy Circle tested positive for the virus and was euthanized, according to county health officials. The alert has neighbors on notice to keep pets close and avoid contact with wild or stray animals while public health crews keep a close eye on the area.
What officials say about the alert
According to ClickOrlando, the Florida Department of Health in Osceola County issued the 60-day notice after confirming the positive test. The alert zone is roughly bordered by Fortune Road to the north, Neptune Road to the south, La Terraza Lane to the east, and Heritage Key to the west. The outlet reports the unvaccinated cat was euthanized on Tuesday.
How to protect pets and people
The Florida Department of Health notes that rabies is “very deadly, with nearly 100% fatal illness in humans and other mammals,” and says prompt medical treatment after exposure can prevent infection. Officials advise pet owners to keep dogs, cats and ferrets vaccinated on a veterinarian-recommended schedule and to keep animals leashed or otherwise secured on their property.
Where to report exposures
If you are bitten or scratched, the Florida Department of Health in Osceola County instructs you to seek medical attention immediately and report the incident to the county at 407-742-8606. To report stray animals or request animal control assistance, residents are directed to contact Osceola County Animal Services at 407-742-8000.
Local context
Osceola County has already dealt with rabies concerns this year. Per DOH-Osceola, a separate 60-day alert was issued in February after a rabid raccoon was euthanized. Health officials again urge pet owners to double-check vaccination records with their veterinarians and to keep cats indoors and dogs leashed to cut down the odds of a risky encounter.
For more details on rabies symptoms and prevention, residents can review health department resources or consult their veterinarians. Anyone who believes they or a family member may have been exposed is urged to seek emergency care without delay.
