Like any mammal, bats can become infected with rabies; however, most do not have the disease. You cannot tell if a bat has rabies just by looking at it, but any bat that is active by day or has trouble flying is more likely to have rabies. If you are bitten by a bat, rabies may occur. Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water, then get medical attention as soon as possible. If the bat is still present, it should be captured so it may be tested for rabies.
Bat Rabies: An Introduction
When people think about bats, they often imagine things that are not true. Bats are not blind. They are neither rodents nor birds. They will not suck your blood, and most do not have
rabies. Bats play key roles in ecosystems around the globe, from rain forests to deserts, especially by eating insects, including agricultural pests. The best protection we can offer these unique mammals is to learn more about their habits and recognize the value of living safely with them.
Bats are mammals and are susceptible to rabies, but most do not have the disease. You cannot tell if a bat has rabies just by looking at it. Rabies can be confirmed only by having the animal tested in a laboratory.
Most of the recent human rabies cases in the United States have been caused by bats. About 17 percent of rabies cases in animals occur in bats. Awareness of the facts about bats and rabies can help people protect themselves, their families, and their pets. This information may also help clear up misunderstandings about bats.
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