The first positive rabies bat of the year was discovered in Thurston County this week, marking the fourth overall in Washington state.
Three bats were collected in the county for testing “on a particularly busy Monday,” stated a news release.
“All three bats were flying around in county residents’ bedrooms where people were sleeping,” stated the release. “Fortunately, all three bats were captured and could be tested. One bat was caught by a cat, another by a dog, and the third by the residents.”
Thurston County Public Health and Social Services (PHSS) received the positive result on Tuesday, Aug. 23 after the bats were tested by the Washington State Public Health Lab. The individuals exposed to the rabies-positive bat are starting preventative vaccinations, stated the release.
The cat that caught the infected bat is up to date on its rabies vaccinations and will receive a booster dose of the vaccine for added protection. It will be observed at home by its owner for 45 days to ensure it stays healthy.
“It is not possible to tell if a bat has rabies just from its appearance,” stated the release. “Whether a bat is alive or dead, handling an infected bat can potentially transfer rabies.”
To prevent exposure to rabies people should not handle bats, dead or alive, or allow anyone in their family to handle one. They also shouldn’t allow their pet to touch or play with a bat and are encouraged to keep their pets vaccinated against rabies per Washington law.
If a person finds a bat in a bedroom or with an unattended child, they should attempt to try to safely capture the bat and have it tested.
If someone believes they or a family member may have touched a bat, or have been bitten or scratched by one, they should wash the area with soap and water. They should then call PHSS during business hours at 360-867-2667 or call 911 after hours and on weekends.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife offers a free printable information sheet on how to bat-proof homes.
To learn more about how to capture a bat indoors from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention go online to www.cdc.gov/rabies/bats/contact/capture.html.
People can also learn more by reading Fish and Wildlife’s “Living with Wildlife: Bats” online at wdfw.wa.gov/sites/default/files/publications/00605/wdfw00605.pdf.
To learn more about vaccinating pets, visit the state Department of Health’s website at www.doh.wa.gov/YouandYourFamily/IllnessandDisease/Rabies/PetVaccinationRequirement.
