Louisville health officials are warning residents to be diligent and exercise caution around wild animals after a bat found in the St. Matthews area tested positive for rabies.
The infected animal was discovered outside a home in the 40207 ZIP code, according to a statement from the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness.
The rabies virus affects the central nervous system and can be fatal for both humans and animals without proper treatment. The health department recommends treatment for any exposure to the rabies virus, whether through bites or non-bite incidents, which includes a dose of human rabies immune globulin and a series of rabies vaccinations.
“Transmission of rabies can occur through a bat’s bite or if the animal’s saliva comes into contact with a person’s eyes, nose, mouth, or an open wound,” said Connie Mendel, Louisville’s chief health strategist. “It’s important to note that someone may not realize they have been bitten by a bat due to their very sharp, tiny teeth.”
Receiving preventative treatment is crucial if someone is exposed to rabies. Once symptoms appear, there is no cure, and the virus can be fatal.
Rabies is most commonly found in bats and skunks in Kentucky, with at least 18 bats in Jefferson County testing positive for rabies since 2019, according to health department data.
If you encounter a bat inside your home, contact your doctor and the public health department at (502) 574-6650. If bitten or scratched by a bat, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention. An exposed pet may also need to be quarantined to prevent the virus from spreading.
For more information, visit the health department’s website.
Reach reporter Eleanor McCrary at EMcCrary@courier-journal.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter @ellie_mccrary
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