Rabid Cat Bites 4 In Hillsborough, Prompting 60-Day Alert

TAMPA, FL — A 60-day rabies alert was issued this week in Hillsborough County, where four people were reportedly bitten by a rabid stray cat.

The cat was killed Saturday in the Town and Country area near Twelve Oaks Boulevard, the Florida Department of Health reported.

Four people had been bitten by the cat that showed "abnormal and erratic behavior," health officials told 10 Tampa Bay. All four people were reportedly treated.

Rabies is present in the wild animal population in Hillsborough, health officials stated in a news release. This includes raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes - all which have a high rate of human exposure.

The rabies alert spans 60 days and includes:

• West Linebaugh Avenue
• West Waters Avenue
• Anderson Road
• Wilsky Boulevard

If a person contracts rabies, health officials state the wound should immediately be scrubbed with soap and water for 5-10 minutes. They suggested the person who was bitten visit a health-care provider or an emergency room.

The person should also attempt to get a full description and location of the animal for purposes of quarantine or rabies testing. This information should be given to the local county health department, officials said.

If the animal is dead, people should not damage the head or be in contact with the animal.

Health officials advised the following ways to prevent rabies exposure:

• Immunize your pets and livestock based on your veterinarian’s recommended schedule.
• Keep pets under direct supervision and on a leash, and keep livestock secured on your property. If an animal bites your pet or livestock, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately and contact Hillsborough County Animal Services at (813) 744-5660.
• Call your local animal control agency to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood. Contact Hillsborough County Animal Services.
• Prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, schools and other similar areas where they might come in contact with people and pets.

More information: Florida Department of Health