Bat tests positive for rabies in Massillon, health department says

MASSILLON − A bat found in the city has tested positive for the rabies virus.

The animal has been euthanized and is no longer a threat to public health, the city's health department said Friday in a news release.

The department said it recommends residents to be on alert and avoid any contact with bats and other wild animals to prevent the spread of rabies. The news release didn't state where the bat was found specifically in the community.

Rabies is transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal or, in some cases, when saliva from an infected animal gets into an open wound or onto a mucous membrane. It is not spread through blood, urine, feces or skunk spray.

Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but it is preventable in humans if treated promptly. If you suspect you have been exposed to rabies, wash any bite wound immediately with soap and water and report the exposure to your health care provider. If a pet is exposed, report to your veterinarian. All exposures should also be reported to the health department.

The Massillon City Health Department recommends residents avoid all contact with wild animals, vaccinate all cats and dogs against rabies, and ensure open windows have screens to keep yourself safe from rabies.

Questions about possible exposures can be directed to the Massillon City Health Department Environmental Health Division at 330-830-1795.

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Bat tests positive for rabies in Massillon, health department says