Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Rabies alert issued in Ortega area

Adithya Sambamurthy
/
Reveal
The Florida Department of Health in Duval County has issued an alert after the discovery of a rabid cat.

The discovery of a rabid cat on Jacksonville’s Westside has prompted the Florida Department of Health in Duval County to issue a rabies alert.

The alert in the Wesconnet area includes neighborhoods around the intersection of Roosevelt and Timuquana boulevards on the Westside.

Public health officials urge people there to not let your pets run loose and to make sure their rabies vaccinations are up to date.

Florida Department of Health, Duval County

Rabies is a viral disease that can infect all warm-blooded animals, including cats, dogs and people, although some species are somewhat naturally resistant to the disease. An animal with rabies could infect other wild animals or domestic animals that have not been vaccinated against rabies.

The rabies alert is in effect through Sept. 8.

Cyd Hoskinson began working at WJCT on Valentine’s Day 2011.