A bat found in the Flomaton area of Escambia County in south Alabama has tested positive for rabies, the Alabama Department of Public Health said.
The incident, which involved human exposure, is the second positive rabies case within the past month in the area which includes the northern parts of Escambia County, Florida near the Alabama/Florida state line.
The bat was taken to the state Bureau of Clinical Laboratories in Mobile where rabies was confirmed.
“This should be a stern reminder that all pets should be properly vaccinated against rabies, given the circumstances of rabid animals now in the same general area,” Dr. Dee W. Jones, State Public Health Veterinarian said. “It is not unusual to see clusters of rabies cases in wild animals and strays during this time of year.”
Alabama state law requires that dogs, cats and ferrets 12 weeks of age and older be current with rabies vaccination and vaccines are also available for horses and other livestock if recommended by a veterinarian. Vaccinating animals reduces the risk of rabies infection if they are exposed, protecting owners and caretakers as well.
In addition to vaccination, ADPH advises the following to help avoid rabies:
- Do not allow pets to run loose, confine within a fenced-in area or with a leash.
- Do not leave uneaten pet food or scraps near your residence.
- Do not illegally feed or keep wildlife as pets.
- Do not go near wildlife or domestic animals that are acting in a strange or unusual manner.
- Caution children not to go near any stray or wild animal, regardless of its behavior.
