Lane County bat tests positive for rabies

A bat discovered in a Lane County home has tested positive for rabies, county health officials announced Thursday.

The animal was discovered by a resident of the Cottage Grove area, about 20 miles south of Eugene. The bat was tested at a veterinary lab at Oregon State University where it was discovered the creature was carrying the rabies virus.

About 10 percent of bats tested every year or found to be carriers of the virus, according to the Oregon Health Authority and at least 10 have tested positive in Oregon in 2018, though this is first in Lane County.

Officials recommend the public not to approach bats or other animals exhibiting odd behavior and to make sure pets are vaccinated against the virus.

If you receive a bite or scratch from a bat “an attempt should be made to safely capture the bat for testing for the rabies virus,” authorities said,

“Officials advise taking extreme precautions before attempting to handle a bat. If it is necessary to pick up a bat, it is best to wear heavy gloves, use a shovel or both,” a Lane County spokeswoman said in a statement.

If you’ve had contact with a bat you suspect may be rabid, seek medical attention and report the incident to authorities.