Utah has confirmed its first case of rabies in a bat for the season, raising concerns among public health officials. The bat, found earlier this month, tested positive for the rabies virus, prompting a reminder for residents to avoid contact with bats and other wildlife.

Rabies is a serious viral disease that affects the nervous system of both humans and animals. It can be transmitted through bites, scratches, or saliva from infected animals. Due to the small size of a bat’s teeth and claws, a bite or scratch may go unnoticed, putting individuals at risk of exposure without realizing it.

Once symptoms of rabies develop, the disease is almost always fatal, underscoring the importance of taking any potential exposure seriously. Although only a small percentage of bats carry rabies, precautions should be taken to prevent contact with these animals.

If you come across a bat, whether alive or dead, it is advised not to touch, hit, or attempt to remove it yourself. Instead, contact your local animal control office to safely collect the bat for testing. Additionally, reach out to your public health department to determine if testing for rabies is necessary and if post-exposure prophylaxis treatment is warranted.

Signs of rabies in animals can manifest as changes in behavior, such as aggression, foaming at the mouth, loss of appetite, or paralysis. It is important to report any direct contact with unfamiliar animals to prevent the spread of the virus.

Remember that visual inspection alone cannot confirm if an animal is rabid; laboratory tests are required to diagnose rabies in animals postmortem. Stay vigilant and seek medical advice if you suspect any potential exposure to rabies.