Second Rabid Bat Found in Oklahoma

A bat infected with rabies was found this week in Chandler, near Bell Cow Lake in Lincoln County. This is the second such discovery in six weeks.

“Oklahoma is seeing more cases of rabies in the state this year than previous years,” State Public Health Veterinarian LeMac’ Morris said. “With more sightings of skunks and bats, this is the perfect time to remind pet owners about the importance of vaccinating family pets, and even livestock.”

Rabies is a viral infection that can pass from mammal to mammal, which means it can be passed from an animal to a human. Transfer is usually through a bite or scratch, although it can spread via contact between a break in the skin and saliva or brain matter of an infected animal.

In Oklahoma, the most common carriers of the virus are skunks and bats, but it can be carried by almost any mammal. Any exposure or possible exposure should be considered worrisome and should be considered if people or pets come in contact with potential carriers.

Those animals infected may be aggressive or excessively passive. They may show the classic sign of drooling, foaming at the mouth or slobbering, but not always. Any wild animal acting in odd manners should be reported and children cautioned against approaching such animals. Asymptomatic animals can also spread the virus.

Anyone who finds a dead or ill bat is encouraged to have it tested for rabies. Such animals should only be handled with heavy gloves or a non-contact manner, such as using a shovel to place the carcass in a container or bag.

If a pet or other domestic animal has come in contact with a suspected rabid animal, the owner should get in touch with their veterinarian or animal control officer as soon as possible.

Domestic animals, including dogs, cats, ferrets, sheep, cattle and horses can be vaccinated against rabies when they are four months or older. Booster shots follow, usually on an annual basis.

For an evaluation of rabies risk, or guidance on a suspected rabies case, please contact the Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Acute Disease Service at (405) 271-4060.

Connie Burcham can be reached at Editor@WatongaRepublican.com