WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — Whatcom Health and Community Service says two bats tested positive for rabies this week.
The department has not disclosed where in the county the bats were found.
“Bats are mobile creatures, and people should avoid contact with bats, regardless of the location,” says Tom Kunesh, Program Supervisor, Whatcom County Health and Community Services. “It’s an important reminder for human safety, and also the safety of animals we love like our cats or dogs, to make sure our pets are up to date on rabies vaccination.”
Bats typically avoid humans, but sometimes they can get into homes through an open window or pets may come across a sick bat.
According to the Washington State Department of Health, about 5 to 10% of sick, injured, or dead bats tested have rabies.
Health officials ask pet owners to make sure their animals have their current rabies vaccinations.
If you find a bat in your home, don’t handle it with your bare hands. Instead, contact the Whatcom Humane Society’s Animal Control services at 360-733-2080.
If you find a dead bat and no people or animals touched it, wear thick gloves or double bag it without direct hand contact and place it in the trash.
If you’ve been bitten or scratched by a bat, clean the area with soap and water right away and contact your health care provider.