The Pima County Health Department is alerting the public of a bat found near a local library that tested positive for rabies.
The bat was located near the entrance to Kirk-Bear Canyon Library at 8959 E. Tanque Verde Road on June 27.
If you, a family member, or your pets had contact with a bat near or at the library, immediately notify the Pima County Health Department at (520) 724-7797.
The staff is available to make sure you and your family are not at risk of getting rabies.
Officials recommend taking the following steps to help people reduce the risk of rabies exposure for themselves, their children, and their pets:
- Do not approach wild animals. Wild animals with rabies may seem unafraid of people. It's not normal for a wild animal to be friendly with people, so stay away from any animal that seems unafraid.
- Talk to your children about avoiding unknown or wild animals. Children should tell an adult right away and the adult should call Pima Animal Care Center at (520) 724-5900.
- Protect your pets. If your cat or dog is not current on their rabies vaccinations, be sure to vaccinate them as soon as possible.
- If you see a bat or any other wildlife acting oddly or on the ground, do not touch it. Stay away and immediately call the Pima Animal Care Center at (520) 724-5900.
- If you have contact with an unknown animal, especially a wild animal, call the Health Department help line at 520-724-7797.
