Public health officials are warning area residents to take precautions after a rabid bat was found in the Breitenbush area of Marion County.
An out of state visitor had physical contact with the bat on the evening of August 3. The bat was sent to Oregon State University for testing. Results confirmed the bat was positive for rabies. Based on the positive test, Marion County Health & Human Services recommended rabies prophylaxis for the exposed individual.
According to the Oregon Health Authority, bats are the most common carriers of rabies in this state. About 8 to 10 percent of the bats tested for rabies are positive every year. So far in 2019, four bats have tested positive for rabies in Oregon.
Do not approach bats, wildlife, or other mammals seen exhibiting odd behavior. If you find a bat, stray animal or other wildlife on your property, take children and pets indoors and authorities emphasize the main protection for humans is to make sure pets are vaccinated and to avoid contact with stray animals and wildlife. Public health officials advise taking extreme precautions before attempting to handle a bat. If it is necessary to pick up a bat, it is best to wear heavy gloves, use a shovel or both.
Sick bats may be seen flopping around on the ground or otherwise acting unusual. If you find a sick bat or other sick wildlife on your property, take children and pets indoors. If you do have an exposure (e.g., scratch or bite) from a bat, immediately clean the wound and seek medical attention. If your pet has encountered a bat or been bitten by a wild animal, contact your veterinarian immediately or call the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife at 866-968-2600.
In the event of bat contact such as a bite or scratch, an attempt should be made to safely capture the bat for testing for the rabies virus. Efforts should be made to collect the bat without destroying the head and the bat should be kept in a cool place. Immediately seek medical attention and report the incident to Marion County Health & Human Services at 503-588-5346.
For more information about rabies, please visit the Oregon Health Authority, Public Health Division website or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website.
