Protect yourself from rabies during bat biting season

The Oneida County Health Department is reminding everyone that rabies is deadly — but it can be prevented. In the U.S., bats are the main cause of human rabies deaths. While most bats do not carry rabies, it’s important to know the risks and take action to stay safe.

If a bat is found inside your home, it should be treated as a possible exposure. Even small bites or scratches may go unnoticed. Anyone who has been near a bat — especially if it was in a bedroom, living space, or around sleeping people — should contact a healthcare provider right away to see if treatment is needed.

What to do if you encounter a bat

• Avoid touching the bat.

• If you are bitten or scratched, wash the area with soap and water and get medical help right away.

• If bat saliva or brain matter gets in your eyes, mouth, nose, or an open cut, get medical help immediately.

• Bat bites can be very small — if you think you may have had contact with a bat, talk to a doctor.

• If you find a bat in your home, especially in bedrooms or other areas of the home that people sleep in, call animal control and inform your local health department.

• Do not release the bat until a health expert says it’s safe — the bat may need to be tested for rabies.

How to protect yourself and your pets

• Make sure pets are up to date on rabies shots.

• Stay away from wild animals.

• Call animal control if you see stray or sick animals.

• Wash any bite or scratch with soap and water.

• Talk to a doctor right away if you think you had contact with a bat.

How to keep bats out of your home

• Check for small holes or cracks.

• Seal any opening bigger than a dime.

• Use screens, chimney caps, and attic door covers. 

• Fill gaps around pipes with steel wool or caulk.

If you think you may have been exposed to a bat — through a bite, scratch, or unknown contact — contact a healthcare provider right away. Prompt treatment (PEP) is extremely effective when started early.

For more information, visit the CDC’s rabies page: https://www.cdc.gov/rabies/prevention/bats.html.