DOH-Walton Issues Rabies Advisory

DeFuniak Springs, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Walton County (DOH-Walton) is monitoring rabies among wild animals in the area. This is in response to a single confirmed case of rabies in a fox that was killed in the DeFuniak Springs area off Josephene Str. in Walton County on June 17, 2026. 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, 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.

• 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 Walton County Animal Control at 850-892-8682.
• 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-Walton by calling 850-892-8015. For wildlife, contact the Northwest Region of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 850-266-3676.
• 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 Walton County Animal Control at 850-892-8682.
• 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.

Contact DOH-Walton at 850-892-8015 if you have questions or need additional information.

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