The Florida Department of Health in Polk County issued a 60-day rabies alert on Monday, October 13, following a confirmed rabies case in a stray cat captured in South Lakeland off South Carter Road. We have gathered more specific details in regards to this community alert. The alert covers the area bounded by Polk Parkway to the north, W Carter Road/E Carter Road to the south, Lakeland Highlands Road to the east, and State Road 37 to the west. The rabies alert will be in effect until December 12, 2025.
Residents and visitors are advised to avoid contact with wild animals such as raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, and coyotes due to the risk of rabies exposure. Preventive measures include immunizing pets and livestock, keeping pets supervised and leashed, securing livestock, and preventing wildlife from entering living spaces. Those bitten or scratched by wild or domestic animals should seek medical attention and report injuries to DOH-Polk at 863-519-8300. Stray animals should be reported to Polk County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control at 863-577-1762.
Source: The Florida Department of Health in Polk County
