Klamath County, Oregon – A bat on the ground may look harmless, injured or simply out of place. Klamath County Public Health is warning residents that getting closer for a better look could carry a serious health risk.
The agency recently used its Health Alert Network to urge people to avoid contact with bats as Oregon records an increase in animals testing positive for rabies. The message is simple: keep your distance, protect pets and report possible exposure immediately.
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Anyone who finds a sick or dead bat should remain calm and keep children and animals away. Bats are protected wildlife, meaning they cannot legally be harmed or kept.
When a bat is found indoors, residents should not release it. The animal may have bitten or scratched a person or pet without anyone realizing it. When it can be done safely, officials recommend placing a container or box over the bat until local public health officials or a veterinarian can provide instructions.
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A similar approach may be used outdoors when a bat could have exposed someone to rabies. Residents can cover it with a bucket or box, but only when doing so does not create additional risk. A dead bat found outside generally requires no action unless a person or animal had contact with it before it died.
Any suspected bite or scratch should be treated as urgent. Residents should contact local animal regulation services or Klamath County Public Health and seek immediate care from a medical provider. Pet owners should call a veterinarian without delay.
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Multiple sick or dead bats found in the same area should be reported to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. The agency does not handle residential bat removal, however. Homeowners with bats roosting in attics or other parts of a building should contact a wildlife control operator.
Public health officials are also encouraging families to teach children never to touch bats or other wildlife, including animals encountered while hiking. Dogs and cats should remain current on rabies vaccinations, regardless of whether they normally live indoors or outside.
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The consequences can be severe for unvaccinated pets. An animal that encounters a bat may face quarantine lasting up to four months or could be euthanized.
Residents can also lower the chance of bats entering their homes by placing screens over vents, chimneys and other openings. With positive rabies tests rising statewide, officials say prevention begins with a basic rule: never handle a bat.
