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Lakewood residents warned to beware of bats after 2 test positive for rabies

The bats were found in the 7200 block of Coronado Avenue and the 7500 block of Benedict Drive.

Lakewood residents are being urged to take precautions after two bats recently found dead in the Dallas neighborhood tested positive for rabies.

The bats were discovered on two occasions, Dallas Animal Services said Wednesday evening in a prepared statement.

The first was found Aug. 15 in the 7200 block of Coronado Avenue, near La Vista Drive. A few days later and about 3 miles away, another was found in the 7500 block of Benedict Drive, near Mockingbird Lane. Both locations are near White Rock Lake.

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The animals were sent to the Texas Department of State Health Services, where they tested positive for rabies. They are the first lab-confirmed rabies cases in Dallas County this year, according to the city.

Dallas employees are working to ensure that no people or pets were exposed.

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Anyone who thinks they or someone they know has come into contact with the bats should call DAS at 214-670-8313 and immediately seek medical attention.

Authorities are reminding people not to touch wild animals.

Signs of rabies in mammals include lethargy, fever, vomiting, anorexia, paralysis, seizures, aggressive behavior and foaming at the mouth. Affected animals may also exhibit abnormal behavior, such as being unafraid of humans or appearing during the day when they are normally nocturnal.