A rabid bat found in Eagle is the first case of the virus in Ada County this year.
The Eagle area homeowner didn’t have any contact with the rabid bat, which state health officials say was brought inside by the family cat. Spokeswoman Christine Myron says the cat was up-to-date on its rabies vaccines and is expected to be fine.
Bats are the most common carrier of the deadly virus in Idaho. Last year, 20 of the flying mammals tested positive for rabies – 11 in Ada County alone.
Without medical treatment, rabies is nearly 100 percent fatal in people and in animals. Health officials urge anyone who comes into contact with a bat to see immediately see a doctor.
If you do encounter a bat, don’t touch it with your bare hands. Save the bat in a container so it can be tested for rabies and vaccinate your pets against the virus.
You can also bat-proof your home or cabin by plugging any holes in the siding and keeping tight-fitting screens on any windows.
Material from the Associated Press was used in this report.
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