PALO ALTO — Authorities are urging caution after a rabid bat was found at a popular dog run in Palo Alto on Friday.
The bat was discovered at the Hoover Park dog run at 2901 Cowper St., according to Palo Alto Animal Services. It later tested positive for the rabies virus, authorities said.
There were no immediate reports of any contact between the bat and any humans or dogs.
Authorities said it is important to never touch a bat, which can fall from trees in hot weather. Anyone who sees a bat that appears to be sick should immediately call animal services at 650-329-2413.
Most often transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal, the virus infects the central nervous system, ultimately causing disease in the brain and death if not treated in a timely manner, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Anyone who has come into contact with a bat or has additional questions can call the Santa Clara County Public Health Department at 408-885-4214 or Palo Alto Animal Services at 650-496-5971.
