September 1, 2006

For Immediate Release

Contact:  Colleen Hodges 

(281) 999-8531

  Martha Garza

         (713) 439-6193

  Sandy Kachur

  (713) 439-6292

Bat Tests Positive for Rabies in Eastern Harris County

A bat in eastern Harris County has tested positive for rabies according to Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services (HCPHES) Veterinary Public Health division.  There were no known human or animal exposures to the bat. 

Animal Control Officers from HCPHES Veterinary Public Health will be in the area Friday, September 1, to inform residents about the bat and to encourage them to keep their pets currently vaccinated against rabies. 

Bats and skunks are considered at high risk for rabies in Harris County and should never be handled.  HCPHES Veterinary Public Health urges the following precautions:

• Maintain current rabies vaccinations on all dogs and cats four months of age and older (for a definition of “currently vaccinated”, please visit www.countypets.com).

• Confine all pets or keep them on a leash.

• All persons, especially children, are warned to avoid all sick or injured animals.

• All stray or wild animals should be avoided, particularly skunks and bats observed during the day.

• Report all animal bites or scratches that break the skin or any physical contact with bats (with or without a bite) to your area animal control agency.

• Report loose animals to the area animal control agency.

For educational programs on rabies or animal safety, or for more information, call HCPHES Veterinary Public Health at 281-999-3191 or visit our website at www.countypets.com.

-end-