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News Release

Rabid Bat Found in City Park, Fort Collins

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Department: Health & Environment
Release Date: May 18, 2012

Contact Information:

Larimer County Department of Health and Environment, 970-498-6775

A bat that was found in the Fort Collins City Park has tested positive for rabies. The bat was reported to Larimer Humane Society (LHS) and was picked up by LHS staff on May 16, 2012 near the frog sculptures at the Northeast Corner of Sheldon Lake. Children were reported to have been in the area near the rabid bat; however, it is not known if any of the children actually handled the bat.

The Larimer County Department of Health and Environment is asking parents who may have had children in City Park on the afternoon of Wednesday, May 16th, to ask their children if they had any contact with the bat. Anyone who may have handled or touched the bat, or learns that their child has had contact with the bat found in City Park should immediately contact the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment at 970-498-6775 (during working hours) or 970-498-6790 (to leave a message after working hours) to discuss the possible risk of rabies being transmitted from this bat.

Rabies is caused by a virus that is transmitted by the bite of an infected animal. But, because bat’s teeth are very small and sharp, wound from a bat bite may not be visible. It can also be transmitted by a scratch or if the animal’s saliva gets into a cut or break in the skin. Just seeing the bat or being in the area, without any physical contact, is not a risk.

There are steps we all can take to help prevent a human/bat rabies exposure:

  • Never touch a wild bat or any other wild animal. A healthy bat will likely not come near enough to you to be touched, so a bat that is slow, lying on the ground or who lands on a person could be showing signs of illness. If you can touch it, chances are it is sick.
  • Keep your doors and windows covered with intact screens. Do not leave screenless doors or windows open in the evening.
  • If you have bats in your house, try to find the source of their entrance and seal it.
  • If you find a dead bat, do not pick it up with your hands, even if you’re wearing gloves. Use a shovel.
  • Teach your children that they should never touch a bat. If they find one, they should leave it where it is and tell an adult.
  • If you are bitten by a bat or if you suspect you’ve been exposed to its saliva, try to contain the bat without touching it, and call the Larimer Humane Society.
  • Make sure that your pets are up to date with their rabies vaccination.