A bat testing positive for rabies was found on the Fullerton College campus and public health officials are asking anyone who may have come into physical contact to call them about potential risks for getting sick.
The bat was found on stairs near the music building, which is on the northeast corner of Chapman Avenue and Lemon Street.
Officials said it is important for people to receive preventative treatment for rabies before showing symptoms of the illness it causes, because at that stage, it is much more likely to be fatal.
And bat bites have been the most common cause of rabies in recent years, they said.
Rabies is transmitted through a bat’s saliva.
If you think your pet may have been in contact with the bat, officials recommend contacting a veterinarian.
If you had physical contact with the bat, call the OC Health Care Agency’s Communicable Disease Control Division at 714-834-8180 during or after business hours to determine the risk for rabies.