Another bat tests positive for rabies

A dead bat, found on the shores of Priest Lake, has tested positive for rabies, according to a news release from Panhandle Health District. The bat was found Tuesday by a woman picking up debris on the shoreline. She accidentally touched the bat with her bare hands and is receiving a post-exposure vaccine, according to officials. “In this case, we don’t believe anyone was bitten by the rabid bat,” said epidemiologist Dave Hylsky in the release. “Transmission of rabies may also occur if the saliva, blood or fluids from an infected animal comes in contact with a person’s eyes, nose, mouth or open wound. We want to take every precaution to ensure anyone in contact with an infected animal is protected.” On Saturday a girl was bitten in Liberty Lake by a bat that tested positive for rabies. Last year, 11 bats tested positive for rabies in Idaho. Rabies is a viral disease that’s preventable, if treated. However, it is fatal without treatment. Safety tips:

• Do not touch a bat with your bare hands
• Do not disturb roosting bats
• Teach children to avoid wild animals, like bats.