Two bats test positive for rabies in Pueblo County

PUEBLO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment (PDPHE) confirms that two bats have tested positive for rabies in Pueblo County.

According to PDPHE, the bats were found in different locations, and the incidents were unrelated. Officials encourage individuals to stay away from wildlife and to vaccinate pets against rabies.

“Rabies is caused by a virus transmitted by the bite of an infected animal. Rabies also can be transmitted if the infected animal’s saliva gets into a cut or break in the skin or through the eyes, nose, or mouth. Without proper medical intervention for humans or preventative vaccination for domestic animals, rabies is fatal,” stated Scott Cowan, Program Manager at the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment.

PDPHE says bats should be tested for rabies if they come into contact with humans or pets or if one is found at your home. Health officials note that bats' teeth are small, and a bite might not be visible.

If you find a bat, PDPHE urges you to leave the area and take your pets away from the bat.

According to PDPHE, contact the United States Department of Agriculture at (719) 355-9629 for collection assistance, and notify the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment at (719) 583-4307 to report the incident.

“Never touch or handle a bat or wild animal,” stated Cowan. “Protect your pets by vaccinating them against rabies through a licensed veterinarian. Rabies vaccinations must be given regularly, so check your pet’s records or talk to your veterinarian to ensure your pet is fully protected,” Cowan added.

Unvaccinated animals exposed to a rabid animal must be euthanized or undergo a 180-day quarantine, with 90 of those days in a facility, says PDPHE.

Health officials recommend the following tips to avoid exposure to rabies:

• 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 then contact 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. 

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