HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Alabama health officials urge the public to refrain from handling bats due to their role as primary carriers of rabies in the state, along with raccoons. Rabies, a viral infection transmitted through bites, scratches, or saliva contact, poses a fatal risk if untreated but is preventable with prompt medical intervention.
Despite a small percentage of bats testing positive for rabies, detecting infected ones is challenging as they may not exhibit symptoms. Thus, laboratory testing becomes crucial for identifying potentially rabid bats that may have exposed humans. In 2023, 13 bats tested positive for rabies in Alabama.
According to Dr. Dee W. Jones, State Public Health Veterinarian, the most important step to take following a potential bat exposure is not to kill the bat by blunt-force trauma. Jones states, “The challenge is collecting the bat without further exposing yourself, so gloves should be worn and a shovel, net or other tools can be used to avoid touching it if possible.”
The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) advises placing the bat in a container equipped with air holes and taking it to a licensed veterinarian for euthanasia. Dr. Jones highlights that head trauma is the leading cause of inaccurate testing, potentially necessitating rabies treatment for individuals who might not otherwise require it if testing could be conducted accurately. This treatment regimen typically consists of one dose of rabies immunoglobulin followed by a series of four vaccine doses over a two-week period.
Bats pose a higher risk of rabies transmission due to their bites, which are often painless and may result in small wounds. This can be concerning to people such as those sleeping, those with disabilities, or infants, who may be unaware of bat bites. Dr. Jones explains that issues happen when bats and humans share living spaces. Bats commonly live in attics, rafters, and other parts of buildings.
The ADPH advises following guidance from wildlife officials, exterminators, and contractors to keep bats out of buildings. Here are simple steps to protect yourself from bat exposure and rabies:
- Seek immediate medical attention if bitten or scratched by a bat.
- If you find a bat in your bedroom or near children or those with disabilities, consult a medical professional and notify your county health department.
- If safe, capture the bat in a secure container with air holes and bring it to a veterinarian for euthanasia, avoiding blunt force trauma.
- If a bat is indoors but hasn't exposed humans or pets, confine it to a room by closing doors and windows leading outside. The bat will likely leave soon.
For further advice on dealing with bat infestations and exposures, visit here.
