MONTGOMERY– Alabama health officials are urging residents to avoid handling bats and seek immediate medical care after a possible exposure.
The Alabama Department of Public Health issued the warning Oct. 22 after several people sought emergency treatment for bat bites. The bites occurred at different Baldwin County residences. However, none of the bats underwent rabies testing, and the patients are receiving preventive treatment.
ADPH says anyone bitten by a bat needs post-exposure treatment unless the animal tests negative for rabies. The warning also follows recent increases in human exposure to rabid or potentially rabid animals in Alabama and nationwide.
Rabies spreads through bites, scratches, or other contact with infected saliva. However, the virus does not spread through contact with bat droppings, blood, or urine. Prompt treatment can prevent the disease, but rabies is fatal once symptoms develop.
Bats in Living Quarters Require Caution
State Public Health Veterinarian Dr. Dee W. Jones said bats inside homes and other living quarters require particular caution. For example, someone who was sleeping may not know whether contact occurred. People who cannot reliably determine whether contact occurred may also need evaluation.
Additionally, one bat inside a home, dormitory, or nursing home can lead to evaluations for multiple people. Jones recommended safely capturing and securing the bat for testing, when possible, rather than releasing it outside.
ADPH also cautions residents never to handle bats or other wildlife with bare hands. Parents should teach children to report bites, scratches, or other contact with wild or unfamiliar animals immediately.
If residents are certain no person or pet had an exposure, ADPH offers different guidance for a bat indoors. Close interior doors and windows, but leave an opening to the outside so the bat can leave.
After any potential exposure, seek emergency care immediately instead of waiting for symptoms. Healthcare providers will assess whether preventive treatment, known as post-exposure prophylaxis, is necessary.
For more information, visit ADPH’s rabies information page or contact your county health department.
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