Bat that had human contact tested positive for rabies in Flathead County | State

KALISPELL, Mont. – The Flathead City-County Health Department shares rabies prevention tips after a bat that had human contact tested positive for rabies.

This is the first animal to test positive for rabies in Flathead County in 2022, according to the health department.

“Unfortunately, this year we have investigated several interactions in which bats are not available for testing. In these cases, we have had to recommend post-exposure prophylaxis. We urge residents to be cautious around bats. If you or your pet has had direct contact with a bat, please contact the Department of Health to ensure proper handling and testing,” said health officer Jen Rankosky.

The health department says if a bat has had contact with an animal or human, it will cover the cost of testing for rabies.

If a person or animal is bitten, scratched for direct contact with a bat and is unavailable for testing, this is considered rabies exposure and appropriate follow-up (including post-exposure prophylaxis for humans) must be completed.

“Please note that bats are of particular concern as a bat bite may not be noticeable. If a bat is found in an area where contact may have occurred but has not been detected, such as a bedroom with a sleeping adult or child, it should be tested for rabies,” the Department of Health said. the health of Flathead City-County.

In order to test a bat for rabies, the brain/head must be intact and must be refrigerated, not frozen, until sent for testing.

You can find more instructions on how to safely capture a bat for testing on the Department of Health’s website at flatheadhealth.org.

Call the Flathead City-County Health Department-Communicable Disease at 406-751-8117 to discuss potential rabies exposure and proper procedures.

The Flathead City-County Health Department shared the following rabies prevention tips:

• Do not feed or handle wild animals, especially bats. Teach children never to touch wild animals or handle bats, even dead ones. Ask children to tell an adult if they see or find a bat.
• Get your dogs and cats vaccinated against rabies. Cats are particularly susceptible to rabies exposure due to a higher risk of interaction with wild animals. All dogs and cats must have a current Flathead County rabies certificate.
• Protect your home against bats. Place screens on all windows, doors and chimneys to keep bats out. Prevent bats from roosting in attics or buildings by covering exterior entry points. However, to avoid trapping young bats that will die or try to break into your rooms, seal any openings permanently after August or in the fall after the bats leave for the season. .
• Watch for abnormal behavior of wild animals. Most wildlife avoid humans and seeing skunks and bats during the day is rare. If you see an animal acting strangely, leave it alone and contact law enforcement or animal control if you think it may be a danger.