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May 24, 2006

For Immediate Release     

Contact:   Colleen Hodges  (281)999-3191

Sandy Kachur  (713) 439-6292

Bat Tests Positive for Rabies in Northeast Harris County

A bat in northeast Harris County has tested positive for rabies according to Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services (HCPHES) Veterinary Public Health.  There were no known human exposures to the bat.  A currently vaccinated family dog may have been exposed and proper precautions have been initiated. 

Bats and skunks are considered at high risk for rabies in Harris County and should never be handled.  HCPHES Veterinary Public Health urges the following precautions:

• Maintain current rabies vaccinations on all dogs and cats four months of age and older  (for a definition of “currently vaccinated”, please visit www.countypets.com)

• Confine all pets or keep them on a leash.

• All persons, especially children, are warned to avoid all sick or injured animals.

• All stray or wild animals should be avoided, particularly skunks and bats observed during the day.

• Report all animal bites or scratches that break the skin or any physical contact with bats (with or without a bite) to your area animal control agency.

• Report loose animals to the area animal control agency.

HCPHES Veterinary Public Health does accept random wild animal samples for testing on a limited basis.  However, not all requests can be accommodated.

For educational programs on rabies or animal safety, or for more information, call HCPHES Veterinary Public Health at 281/999-3191 or visit our website at www.countypets.com or www.hcphes.org.

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