Health Alert

DOH-St. Johns Issues Rabies Advisory

August 31, 2026 2 min read

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The advisory is in response to a single confirmed case of rabies in a raccoon in St. Augustine.
Rabies Advisory
For media inquiries: Kenice Taylor • 904-506-6081

St. Johns County, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in St. Johns County (DOH-St. Johns) is monitoring rabies among wild animals in the area. This is in response to a single confirmed case of rabies in a raccoon that was killed in the St. Augustine South area off Queen Road and U.S. Highway 1 in St. Johns County on August. 28. All residents and visitors should be aware that rabies may be currently present in the wild animal population.

People and domestic animals should always avoid physical contact with wild animals (e.g., raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats, and coyotes), which carry a higher risk of human exposure and a need for rabies post-exposure treatment. If you are exposed to rabies, receiving appropriate treatment after exposure will protect you from the risk of rabies.

Take the following precautions 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 St. Johns County Animal Control at 904-209-6190.
  • 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 injury to DOH-St. Johns by calling 904-506-6081.
  • Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home; instead contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
  • Call your local animal control agency to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood. Contact St. Johns County Animal Control at 904-209-6190.
  • 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.

For more information on rabies, contact DOH-St. Johns at 904-506-6081.