SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) – A dead bat found at a Savannah home has tested positive for rabies.
The bat was found on the front porch of a home in Magnolia Park on Feb. 3, according to a press release from the Chatham County Health Department.
A resident reported the bat to health officials after becoming concerned her cat may have come in contact with it. The bat was taken in for testing and was confirmed positive for rabies.
The cat was vaccinated against rabies and is receiving a booster vaccination for additional protection. No humans came in contact with the bat.
Rabies prevention tips
Rabies has the potential to be deadly and is most often spread by infected animals. The disease can be found in multiple species including raccoons, foxes and bats.
Health officials offer the following tips to protect yourself and family pets:
Avoid contact with animals you do not know.Make sure pets are up to date on vaccinations. Dogs and cats should get rabies shots after 12 weeks of age, followed by regular booster shots.Do not handle or feed wild animals.Avoid attracting wild animals by securing garbage cans and removing pet food left outside overnight.Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.Teach children to never handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic.Warning signs and what to do
Symptoms of rabies in animals may include a change in behavior, biting, aggression, foaming at the mouth, lack of fear of natural enemies and paralysis.
If an animal bites you, seek medical care immediately and contract Chatham County Animal Services at 912-652-6575.
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