HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAFF) – The Alabama Department of Public Health is reminding the public not to handle bats, which are one of the leading causes of rabies in the state.
Rabies is a viral infection of mammals that is transmitted through bites, scratches, or other contact with infected saliva. Rabies can be fatal if left untreated, but it is preventable if treated immediately after a bite or scratch.
In 2023, the Alabama Department of Public Health reported 13 bats laboratory-confirmed to be positive for rabies.
State Public Health Veterinarian Dr. Dee W. Jones said the most important step to take after possible exposure to a bat is not to kill the bat with blunt force trauma.
“The challenge is to retrieve the bat without further exposure, so you will need to wear gloves and use tools such as shovels and nets to avoid touching the bat if possible,” Jones said. he said.
State health officials suggest placing the bat in a container with air holes and taking it to a licensed veterinarian for euthanasia.
Head trauma is one of the most common reasons why an accurate rabies test cannot be performed, Jones added.
State health officials say bats pose a higher risk of transmitting rabies to humans than other wild animals because they have small teeth that can penetrate the skin. The bite may be somewhat painless, and a typical bite does not leave behind.
In some cases, a person may be bitten and not be aware, such as when someone is sleeping, an infant or toddler, or someone with a mental illness.
“Exposure to bats is more complex than bites from other animals. Not only is there a lack of awareness that bats can transmit rabies, but bat bites are more complex than typical animal bites. Because it can be much more subtle,” Jones said.
Statistics show that while there has been one rabies death in Alabama over the past 20 years, there have been many more reported rabies exposures that have resulted in the need for preventive treatment.
“Problems arise when bats and humans live in the same habitat,” Jones said. “It is common for bats to roost in the rafters and attics of homes, schools, and other buildings, but sometimes some bats can even find their way into residential areas. Contrary to popular belief, The age of a building does not necessarily indicate the danger of bat roosting. We investigated reports of roosting in older buildings in the area, as well as newer buildings on school campuses and sports stadiums. .”
State health officials advise people to follow advice from exterminators and contractors on how to keep bats out of buildings.
If you have ever encountered a bat, you can also follow these tips:
- If you are bitten or scratched by a bat, seek medical attention immediately.
- If you wake up and find a bat in your bedroom or in the room of an unaccompanied child or mentally ill person, seek the advice of your health care provider and report it to your county health department.
- If possible, collect the bat in an escape-proof container with air holes and take it to a local veterinarian for euthanasia. Do not cause trauma with blunt force.
- If you see a bat in your home and are sure that no humans or pets have come into contact with it, keep the bat in the room by closing all but the doors and windows that lead to the outside. Bat will probably leave soon.
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