Boulder County Public Health reported Tuesday that a bat found in Longmont tested positive for rabies.
A resident found the bat dead on their property on May 9 near the intersection of Nelson Road and Airport Road. According to a BCPH news release, the person contacted the department to alert them of the bat and submit it for rabies testing.
Rabies, an infectious viral disease, affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal unless it is treated before any symptoms appear, the release explained. Treatment for rabies exposure involves a series of vaccinations.
According to the release, a risk assessment found that all of the pets that might have come into contact with the bat had previous rabies vaccinations and regular veterinary exams.
Carol McInnes, Boulder County Public Health environmental health specialist, said in the release that bats are starting to migrate, which increases their chance for coming into contact with people and pets.
“As temperatures get warmer, everyone will be spending more time outdoors, so keep an eye on your pets and make sure their vaccinations are up to date,” McInnes said in the release.
Rabies exposure typically results from a bite or scratch from an infected animal. A tiny puncture of the skin by a bat can be hard to detect.
McInnes said anyone who fears their child or pet has come into contact with a bat should contact Boulder County Public Health as soon as possible by calling 303-441-1564.
