Rabies Surveillance

Each year the Florida Department of Health in Marion County receives on average about 1,000 reports of potential exposure to rabies. These reports are investigated by the Department's Epidemiology section, which issues public alerts when a positive rabies test reveals the disease is active in the community.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal:

Control bleeding and wash the area of the wound with soap and water.

Report the bite to the Department of Health, Marion County Animal Services, or local law enforcement.

Download and complete the Report of Possible Rabies Exposure PDF form.

Seek medical attention immediately.

Rabies Prevention

Avoid direct human and domestic animal contact with wild animals.

Have your veterinarian vaccinate pets and at-risk livestock. Make sure you follow your veterinarian’s instructions for revaccination.

Do not allow your pets to run free. Follow leash laws by keeping pets and livestock secured on your property.

Never feed wild or stray animals. Avoid attracting them with outdoors food sources. Feed your pets indoors.

If your animal is attacked by a wild, stray, or unvaccinated animal, do not examine your pet for injuries without wearing gloves. Wash your pet with soap and water to remove saliva from the attacking animal. Do not let your animal come into contact with other animals or people until the situation can be handled by animal control or health department staff.