Bat found on Burnet square tests positive for rabies
FROM STAFF REPORTS
BURNET — While a bat found on the Burnet courthouse square Oct. 1 tested positive for rabies, officials say no humans came into contact with the infected animal.
But police are asking residents to remain cautious if they come across bats.
“If you see a bat … just leave it alone,” Burnet Police Capt. Jason Davis said. “If they’re there for an extended period of time, (then) feel free to call us, and we’ll look and see if we think that we need to collect it.”
On Oct. 1 about 10:15 a.m., the Burnet Police Animal Control Officer responded to the square after somebody reported finding a bat on the ground. Since it was found in a public location, even though there was no report of human contact, officials sent it off for rabies testing as a precautionary measure.
Davis said the bat tested positive for the virus.
Usually, if animal control or police find a bat in a non-public place, they might let it be in case it’s just resting before flying off.
“Not all bats have rabies. Sometimes, they just get on the side of a house to rest up,” Davis said. But still, he urged caution if anybody comes across a bat found in a place the animals don’t typical roost.
Animal control officer Mike Martin said bats often reside in residential and populated areas because flying insects are attracted to the lights.
These insects, he pointed out, are the main food source for bats.
If somebody finds a bat, he or she shouldn’t attempt to catch or trap it but call the police, animal control or sheriff’s office (depending on the location.) Rabies is a fatal disease if left untreated in humans, Davis said, so it’s important to take necessary precautions to prevent contracting it or allowing it to spread.
Along with human interactions, this means protecting pets by getting them vaccinated, he added.
Burnet residents can call (512) 756-6404 if they have questions or concerns regarding this particular bat, other bats or rabies in general.
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