Rabies is a viral disease that poses a threat to both animals and humans. It is a severe condition that has no known cure and can lead to death. Among the various animals in Colorado, bats are known to be the major carriers of rabies. The prevalence of rabies in bats raises questions about its potential risk to humans.
If you find bats around your house or if they have entered your home, it is important to take quick action. Once these intruders get in, it can be challenging to get them out. Not to mention, it is also dangerous to handle them without proper safety measures. Call a professional from Saela Pest Control today.
Bats and rabies virus
Bats are the most recognized carriers of the rabies virus as they have the ability to carry the disease without showing any symptoms. Two types of bats in Colorado have shown a higher susceptibility to rabies, namely the silver-haired bat and the little brown bat.
According to recent biannual reports from public health departments, a significant number of bats have tested positive for rabies virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 5 to 10 percent of the bat population may be infected with rabies at any given time.
These statistics can be scary, given the fact that these dangerous animals are often found in the attics of residential buildings.
Recent incidents in Colorado
Colorado has witnessed various incidents associated with rabid bats. Reports from the state health authorities have shown that bats in various counties of Colorado tested positive. This called for an increase in prompting public awareness about the danger.
For example, in 2022, an incident occurred in Boulder County when a bat discovered in a residential area tested positive for rabies. Furthermore, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has documented various events that show rabid bats in urban areas. This underscores the importance of citizens to be vigilant.
How do you know if a bat has rabies?
As already mentioned in the article, bats are particularly more dangerous as they can have rabies and not show any symptoms at all. However, there are certain signs and behaviors that can be helpful in identifying them.
Bats infected with rabies may exhibit unusual behavior, such as increased aggression, disorientation, or a lack of fear of humans. Additionally, they may be seen flying during the daytime, which is not usual as they are nocturnal creatures. Sometimes, they may appear on the ground, unable to fly.
Other potential symptoms include excessive salivation and difficulty in movement. Knowing these signs is crucial for the public to avoid direct contact with such bats.
How might a human come in contact with a bat and get exposed to the disease?
The risk of coming in contact with a bat in Colorado is quite prevalent due to their population in the state. While the overall statistics for rabies in humans are low, the potential risk is always there. If a person comes in contact with a rabic bat and gets bitten or scratched by it, it could cause a transmission of the disease. The virus mainly spreads through the animal’s saliva.
Additionally, a bat might enter a residential property without the owner knowing. They might bite or scratch your pet, who will then acquire the condition. Further, you could get the virus from your pet, which is now rabid.
If you encounter a bat and get bit, here are some steps you should immediately follow:
- Clean and wash the wound thoroughly.
- Apply a topical antiseptic to the wound.
- Contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
- Inform the healthcare professional every detail about the incident.
- Follow medical recommendations.
Safeguard your family today!
Bats can be scary, especially when you have little children and pet animals in the house. Contact pest control in Colorado Springs today to protect yourself!