Rabies Confirmed in St. Cloud Bat

(KNSI) — The City of St. Cloud says rabies has been discovered in a bat.

According to a press release, St. Cloud Animal Control recently responded to a report of a bat, which later tested positive for rabies. Rabies is a disease that affects the nervous system of mammals. It is caused by a virus and is typically spread by an infected animal biting another animal or person. It is also fatal and can’t be treated once symptoms appear.

With warmer weather, interactions between wild animals, pets, and humans increase, leading to the potential for someone to get bitten.

The city’s Health and Inspections Department urges the public to take precautions to protect themselves. First, avoid all contact with bats and unfamiliar animals. Homes should be secured against bats by keeping windows and doors closed or screened, and inspected for gaps or openings where bats could enter. Never touch wild animals, even if they appear injured or friendly, and teach kids to do the same. The department says it’s equally important to make sure pets are vaccinated by keeping rabies vaccinations current for all dogs, cats, and ferrets.

Pet owners must license their dogs, which is required in St. Cloud and includes providing proof of rabies vaccination.

If a bat is found in a room with a sleeping person, an unattended child, someone who is intoxicated, or someone with a disability, the bat should be safely collected and submitted for testing, since a bite is not always obvious. If someone is bitten by an animal, they should seek medical care immediately and contact public health officials.

To report an incident or get help, contact St. Cloud Animal Control at 320-650-3164.

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