DUVAL COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Duval County (DOH-Duval) announced a rabies alert on Friday following the discovery of rabies in a coyote that was shot and killed in Atlantic Beach on Thursday.

Officials said the coyote is believed to be responsible for multiple attacks that occurred on people and a dog in Atlantic Beach.

DOH-Duval reported that they are closely monitoring the presence of rabies in the wild animal population around the vicinity where the coyote was killed, specifically near Begonia Street and 6th Street. The alert is expected to remain in effect for 60 days, according to the department.

“Residents and visitors should be aware that rabies is present within the wild animal community,” DOH-Duval stated in a press release. “If you are exposed to rabies, receiving timely treatment after exposure is crucial to protect against the disease.”

The rabies alert applies to the following “boundaries” in Duval County, according to DOH-Duval:

• Northern boundary: Modesky Park
• Southern boundary: Seagate Avenue
• Eastern boundary: Beach Avenue
• Western boundary: San Pablo Road North

DOH-Duval officials urge people take the following precautions to prevent rabies exposure:

• Immunize your pets and livestock based on your veterinarian’s recommended schedule.
• Keep your pets under direct supervision and on a leash, and keep livestock secured on your property. If an animal bites your livestock, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately and contact Animal Care and Protective Services (ACPS) at 904-630-CITY.
• Avoid contact with wild or stray animals. Do not handle, feed or unintentionally attract them with outdoor pet food, open garbage cans or other sources of food. If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, seek medical attention and report the inquiry to DOH-Duval by calling 904-253-1295.
• Call ACPS to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood.
• Prevent wildlife, including bats, from entering your home, schools and similar areas where they might come in contact with people and pets.

For more information on rabies, click here or call DOH-Duval.