Raccoon Tests Positive For Rabies In Sarasota: FL Health Officials

SARASOTA COUNTY, FL — A raccoon in Sarasota County tested positive for rabies earlier this month, according to a Florida Department of Health news release.

The case was confirmed in a raccoon that was killed Jan. 25 in the Bee Ridge area, off McIntosh Road between Proctor and Wilkinson roads, the department said.

“All residents and visitors should be aware that rabies may be currently present in the wild animal population,” health officials said.

The department recommends that people and domestic animals should always avoid physical contact with wild animals, including raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes, which carry a higher risk of human exposure and a need for post-exposure rabies treatment.

Those who have been bitten or scratched by a wild or stray domestic animal should contact the Department of Health in Sarasota County at 941-861-2873.

Sarasota Animal Services can be contacted at 941-861-9501.