Residents in Orange are being urged to exercise caution after a local bat was confirmed to have rabies. The bat, found on the pavement, was located on South Main Street and its rabid status was confirmed last week, according to health officials. The Orange County Health Care Agency, as reported by NBC Los Angeles, emphasized the critical nature of avoiding contact with wild animals and ensuring pets are vaccinated against rabies.
In an incident that sends a shiver down the spine of every pet owner, anyone who may have made contact with the rabid bat—or suspects their pet might have—is being asked to reach out to the Communicable Disease Control Division. According to a CBS News release, calls can be directed 24/7 to the health care officials at (714) 834-8180. Identifying such interactions is vital, as the progression of rabies symptoms in humans marks a nearly inevitable descent towards fatality if not treated promptly.
The warning comes after the bat was discovered on October 16, around 2 p.m., on the 500 block of South Main Street. Health officials are reminding the public of the insidious nature of rabies, which is typically transmitted via the saliva of infected animals. The agency also issued safety tips like keeping windows and doors screened, reporting any bat findings inside homes to animal control, and immediately washing any animal bites with soap and water before seeking medical care.
Interestingly, Orange County is home to a variety of bat species, with Mexican Free-Tailed bats and Big Brown Bats being among the most common, as detailed by nonprofit organization Orange County Habitats. However, the specific type of bat found in this incident was not disclosed by officials. Those worried about a potential exposure should not hesitate to reach out to the HCA's Communicable Disease Control Division for guidance and next steps.
Should you have further concerns, OC Animal Care can provide additional information on preventive measures and resources at (714) 935-6848.
