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Officials at the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory confirmed Aug. 23 a bat in Clackamas County tested positive for rabies.
The bat was found at a private residence in Lake Oswego when it flew into a window. It did not have any contact with any humans or pets.
During the summer, interactions with bats are more common. In Oregon, bats are the main animal of concern for rabies.
“While this bat did not bite any people or pets, we do want to remind people that rabies is a serious illness and it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself and your family,” said Clackamas County Health Officer Dr. Sarah Present.
Public health officials recommend the following steps to safeguard community members, families and pets:
- Vaccinate your pets, including animals that are being fed on the property, like feral cats. However, feeding wild or feral animals is not recommended.
- Do not handle a live or dead bat. Call a professional wildlife removal service. A bat seen during daylight hours is likely ill and should be avoided.
- Seal openings to attics, basements, porches, sheds, barns and chimneys.
- Feed pets indoors.
- Keep garbage in secure containers away from wildlife.
- If your pet comes into contact with a bat, take it to a veterinarian.
Oregon law requires all dogs at least three months old to be vaccinated for rabies by the age of six months. While cats are not required to be vaccinated for rabies in Clackamas County, it is strongly recommended. Unvaccinated cats require four months of strict quarantine per public health protocol if they are exposed to a rabid bat. If quarantining the animal is not possible, euthanasia could be recommended for unvaccinated pets exposed to rabid bats.
If you are scratched or bitten by a bat, immediately wash the affected area with soap and running water for at least five minutes and seek medical attention. If the bat that caused the bite wound is available, it may be considered for rabies testing if the head is still intact. Contact the Clackamas County Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Program at 503-655-8411 to report the bite and discuss bat testing.