Health officials in California have issued a warning after a rabid bat was discovered near a neighborhood in South Fremont. Residents are advised to avoid contact with wildlife and seek medical attention if they suspect exposure.
On May 26, a bat was detected near Palo Verde Common in South Fremont. The location was close to a sidewalk and easily accessible to both pedestrians and animals, according to the Fremont Police Department.
Alameda County Vector Control confirmed that the bat tested positive for rabies. While the incident is under investigation, there are no current reports of human or animal exposures linked to this bat.
Rabies is a fatal disease caused by a virus that affects the brain and nervous system. It is preventable if the exposed person or animal receives a series of rabies vaccine shots swiftly after exposure.
Residents in the affected area have been informed about the risks associated with rabies exposure. Authorities emphasized the importance of timely vaccination following potential exposure.
Authorities have urged anyone who touched or may have been bitten by the bat to contact the Alameda County Public Health Acute Communicable Disease Program at 510-267-3250 and seek immediate medical treatment.
Officials also advised the public to avoid bats and other wild animals that often carry rabies, such as skunks, foxes, coyotes, and raccoons.
Unvaccinated dogs and cats face a medium to high risk of contracting the rabies virus, highlighted police reports. The authorities advised against touching sick or dead animals and urged residents to report unusual animal behavior to Fremont Animal Services or the Alameda County Public Health Department.
Residents should avoid handling bats found in homes or yards. Key preventative actions include vaccinating pets against rabies and keeping them confined to the property. Removing outdoor food sources that might attract wildlife is also advised.
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