A bat found at Wildwood Park in Irvine on Tuesday, Nov. 20, has tested positive for rabies, the Orange County Health Care Agency reported Wednesday afternoon.
Health officials advise anyone who may have been in physical contact with the bat — located at about 5 p.m. at Shooting Star and Wildwood — call the agency’s epidemiology team at 714-834-8180 or 714-834-7792 (after hours).
They also recommend that owners of pets that may have been exposed to the bat contact a veterinarian.
The rabies virus is found in an animal’s saliva and can be transmitted to humans through a bite from the animal. Most cases of rabies in the U.S. are transmitted by bats, according to the Health Care Agency. Once a person begins showing symptoms, the virus is usually fatal. That’s why quick treatment is urged for anyone exposed to a rabid animal.
A rabid bat was previously found Sept. 8 at University Community Park in Irvine.
To minimize risk of rabies, the Health Care Agency and OC Animal Care offers these tips:
- Avoid all contact with wild animals.
- Vaccinate all cats and dogs against rabies.
- Do not sleep with open unscreened windows or doors.
- If bats are seen inside the house or other structure, close off the area and contact animal control. Once the bat has been removed, close off any areas allowing entrance into the house.
- Do not leave pet food outside where it will attract wild animals.
- Immediately wash all animal bites with soap and water, being sure to flush the wound well, then contact a doctor.
- Report all animal bites to OC Animal Care.
- Report stray animals to OC Animal Care.
Contact OC Animal Care at 714-935-6848.
