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Bat found tests positive for rabies

Posted at 11:16 AM, May 10, 2016
and last updated 2016-05-10 14:22:08-04
A bat found at a north side apartment complex last week tested positive for the rabies virus.
 
The bat was found at the Arches at Oracle located at 5921 North Oracle Road.
 
According to a media release, the bat was removed on May 4 by Pima Animal Care Center. It is unclear how long the bat was in the area before being removed.
 
Witness reports state that people were seen gathering around and touching the box prior to the bat being reported.
 
Pima County Health Department is asking anyone who came into contact with that bat to notify the Department immediately by calling (520) 724-7797.
 
Humans and pets can get rabies from direct physical contact such as a bite or scratch from an infected animal.
 
According to the media release, it may take weeks to years for people to show symptoms after being infected. Once someone starts developing symptoms, that person usually does not survive.
 
Please remember that if you see a bat or any other wildlife acting oddly or on the ground, do not touch it. Stay away and immediately notify the Pima Animal Care Center by calling (520) 724-5900.