Bat with rabies found in Pueblo County
PUEBLO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment reports a bat has tested positive for rabies.
According to health officials, the bat was found near 25th Lane and Everett Road.
“Fortunately, this bat did not come in contact or bite anybody,” stated Vicki Carlton program manager at the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment said in a press release. “This is a reminder that it is important to keep your pets up-to-date with their rabies vaccinations through a licensed veterinarian as rabies is carried by bats, skunks, raccoons, and foxes in Pueblo County.”
If you find a bat, you're asked to immediately leave the area and contact the United States Department of Agriculture (719) 355-9629 for collection and notify the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment at 583-4307 to report the incident.
To avoid exposure to rabies, the PDPHE recommends:
- Never touch a bat or any other wild animal.
- If you are bitten by a bat or other wild animal, wash the bite thoroughly with soap and water, and then contact both your physician and the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment.
- Make sure your pets are vaccinated against rabies. Keep in mind that vaccines not administered by a licensed veterinarian are not considered valid vaccinations in the State of Colorado, including Pueblo County.
- If your pet has been exposed to wildlife contact your veterinarian and report the incident to the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment.
- Protect your dog from wildlife by walking your dog on a leash.
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