Canine distemper virus (CDV)

CDV causes severe and often fatal disease in raccoons, foxes, and other carnivores. Clinical signs may include seizures, incoordination, and other neurologic signs; discharge from the eyes; weight loss; and death. The disease is the most commonly diagnosed infectious disease in raccoons, and there are often multiple outbreaks occurring in Florida at any one time. As of January 2026, there are significant outbreaks occurring in several areas in Florida including Pasco and Brevard counties. Outbreaks may last for months and cause largescale mortalities; however, many raccoons survive. Once the outbreak is over, herd immunity will reduce the risk of outbreaks for several years until raccoon densities increase and immunity wanes.

Rabies is also present in raccoons in Florida and can cause similar clinical signs. The two diseases cannot be distinguished based on observation. Although most neurologic raccoons are infected with CDV (which is not infectious to people), rabies is always a possibility. Treat every sick raccoon as if it could have rabies. Immediately report exposure to the Florida Department of Health Florida Department of Health and seek medical care if a person or pet is bitten or scratched.

Your reports help us to track the disease. To confirm the diagnosis, the FWC will often test a sample of raccoons from larger die-offs; however, the FWC cannot respond to all reports of sick or dead raccoons. Do not approach or handle sick or dead raccoons. Keep pets and children away as well. If a raccoon presents an immediate threat to people or animals please call a regional FWC office Regional Office Contacts | FWC  or Wildlife Alert at 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922). Otherwise sick or dead raccoons may be reported by emailing WildlifeHealthTeam@MyFWC.com. In some counties, County Animal Services will respond to reports of sick raccoons.

Dead raccoons may be disposed of by burial or double-bagging and disposing of in household trash. Do not handle the carcass but rather pick up with a shovel and bury or place in garbage bags. Wash well afterwards and disinfect the shovel with a 10% bleach solution.

A licensed wildlife rehabber may also be contacted; however, most rehabbers are overwhelmed with raccoon cases and are not able to take in neurologic adult raccoons. A list of licensed wildlife rehabilitators is available. A commercial wildlife trapper may also be contacted to remove a sick or dead raccoon although a fee is charged for this service. A list of commercial trappers may be found at FWC - Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator.

Feed and other attractants that bring raccoons in proximity to each other facilitate disease spread. To help prevent disease, do not feed raccoons. Remove pet food and other sources of food Tips for Securing Attractants | FWC. Ensure pets are vaccinated against rabies, canine distemper virus, and canine parvovirus.