OCALA, Fla. (WCJB) - Marion County Health Department officials are alerting the public to the presence of rabies in wild animal populations in Ocala.

Officials say a cat captured in the downtown Ocala area off SE Third Street and Osceola Avenue on Nov. 20, tested positive for the virus.

The health department has issued a rabies alert for the next 60 days inside the area between Bonnie Heath Boulevard, Southeast 19th Street, 16th Avenue, and Southwest 16th Avenue.

Officials warn the public to avoid contact with wild animals, which carry a higher risk of human exposure and a need for rabies post-exposure treatment.

The Florida Department of Health announced a rabies alert last Thursday for an area west of Ocala.

If an animal bites your pet or livestock, seek veterinary assistance for

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