The Los Angeles County Public Health Department has issued a warning about an increase in rabid bats during the summer and fall months. The department advises residents to avoid touching bats with their bare hands and to report any injured, sick, or dead bats.
While only 1% of bats in nature are rabid, about 15% of bats found near people and pets in L.A. County test positive for rabies, according to the health department. Last year, 50 rabid bats were identified, and so far this year, six have been found.
Rabid bats are more likely to fly during daylight hours, be found on the ground, or rest for long periods in highly visible areas. However, it’s impossible to determine if a bat is rabid just by looking at it. Rabies can be fatal to humans and pets if preventative treatment isn’t administered before symptoms appear. It’s transmitted by a bite or scratch from a rabid animal.
The health department stresses the importance of seeking help quickly if exposed to rabies and promptly reporting any bat encounters. They also advise keeping pets’ rabies vaccinations up-to-date, even for indoor-only cats and dogs, as some rabid bats are found indoors.
As personal injury bloggers, we often discuss the importance of public safety and the role of local health departments in preventive measures. The L.A. County Health Department’s warning is a crucial reminder of the potential health risks posed by rabid bats and the importance of reporting any suspicious bat activity.