TAMPA, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough) has issued a 60-day rabies alert following the confirmation of a rabies case in a stray cat found dead on April 12, 2025, in the Town and Country area near Twelve Oaks Boulevard.
DOH-Hillsborough is monitoring rabies among wild animals in the area. All residents and visitors should be aware that rabies is currently present in the wild animal population.
The affected area is bounded by Linebaugh Avenue to the north, West Waters to the south, Anderson Road to the east, and Wilsky to the west.
Health officials urge residents and visitors to avoid contact with wild animals such as raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, and coyotes, which pose a higher risk of transmitting rabies. Rabies is a deadly viral disease, but prompt treatment after exposure can prevent infection.
To reduce the risk of rabies exposure, DOH-Hillsborough recommends the following precautions:
- Ensure pets and livestock are vaccinated against rabies according to your veterinarian’s schedule.
- Keep pets leashed and under direct supervision, and secure livestock on your property.
- Avoid handling or feeding wild or stray animals, and do not attract them with outdoor pet food or open garbage cans.
- If a wild or domestic animal bites or scratches you, seek medical attention immediately and report the incident to DOH-Hillsborough at 813-307-8059.
- Do not adopt wild animals; contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator instead.
- Report stray animals to Hillsborough County Animal Services at 813-744-5660.
- Prevent wildlife, especially bats, from entering homes, schools, or other occupied spaces.
If an animal bites your pet or livestock, seek veterinary care immediately and notify Hillsborough County Animal Services. For more information, contact DOH-Hillsborough at 813-307-8059 or visit FloridaHealth.gov.