Above-average number of rabid bats reported in Ada County, including in downtown Boise, Meridian

Precautions are being urged after above-average numbers of rabid bats have been reported in Ada County, including near downtown Boise, Meridian and Bown Crossing. Thirteen bats have tested positive for rabies in Idaho so far this year; seven of those were found in Ada County. “We have seen the number of phone calls about bat encounters increase in the past weeks,” said Sarah Correll, epidemiologist for the Central District Health Department.

KIVI TV reported that a Boise couple found a rabid bat in their backyard and now their pet cat is under quarantine to make sure it didn’t catch the dangerous disease. The cat was found napping near the dead bat; it’s being kept away from all people and animals for 45 days.

Rabies can cause a fatal illness; people are being advised not to touch a bat to avoid the risk. Anyone who is bitten or scratched by a bat is advised to seek medical attention. The Boise couple whose cat is in quarantine was able to get the dead bat into a bag without touching it, and brought it to the Idaho Humane Society for testing.

Officials said bats are the main source of rabies exposure in Idaho. The fall months can bring an increase in bat interactions, as many bats begin migrating to warmer climates. There’s more info online here .