LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – Two cases of rabies have been confirmed in Nevada bats, according to a new announcement from the Department of Agriculture.
According to the department’s Animal Disease Laboratory, detections of the virus were made in Carson City and Clark County.
Bats are the most common source of rabies transmission in humans and domestic animals, among wildlife that can carry the virus.
The department also noted that as bat activity ramps up from May to October, cases may continue to increase. Usually, around 10 to 20 cases of rabies are confirmed in a calendar year.
“It’s important to keep animals up to date on vaccinations,” said NDA State Veterinarian Peter Mundschenk, DVM. “Vaccinating pets against rabies protects pets and their owners. Unvaccinated animals that have been exposed to rabies must be euthanized for exposure testing, making it critical to keep vaccinations current.”
Rabies vaccinations are currently required by Nevada state law for dogs, cats, ferrets, and certain species of livestock.
Bats can enter and exit residences unnoticed. Officials urge valley residents to immediately report any bats, dead or alive, that may have been in contact with people or animals.
Additionally, residents should contact local animal control agencies before attempting to pick up a bat.
For more about rabies and the proper steps to take in the case of an exposure on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov/rabies, or through the Southern Nevada Health District or Northern Nevada Public Health.
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