PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County has issued a rabies alert for the west central region of Pasco County after a report of a cat that tested positive. 

Health officials said an animal with rabies could infect other domestic animals or wild that have not been vaccinated.

The rabies alert is in effect for 60 days, officials said. The center of the alert in the west central area of Pasco County includes the following areas:

• North of Ridge Road
• South of Midvale Avenue
• West of the Pithlachascotee River
• East of Moon Lake Road

Residents are advised to take the following precautions: 

• Keep rabies vaccinations up-to-date for all pets.
• If your pet is bitten by a wild animal, seek veterinary assistance for the
  animal immediately.
• Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract wild animals by leaving pet
  food outside, or garbage cans open.
• Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.
• Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if
  they appear friendly.
• Prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes,
  churches, schools, and other similar areas, where they might come in contact with people and pets.
• If you are bitten by any animal seek care promptly. Wash the wound thoroughly
  with soap and water. 
• Go to your family doctor or hospital for medical attention immediately.

Residents can contact Pasco County Animal Services at (727) 834-3216, (813) 929-1212, or (352) 521-5194 to report animal bites, scratches and for information on stray dogs and cats.

For any concerns about wild animals, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission can be reached at 1-863-648-3203.

For additional information on rabies, visit the Florida Department of Health website or contact the Florida Department of Health in Pasco County, at (352) 521-1450 option 4.