City Warns Public About Bats Carrying Rabies

EL PASO — The City of El Paso Department of Public Health reminds the public that they should not handle bats due to rabies concerns.

Officials said that 16 bats have tested positive for rabies in El Paso this year.

View City of El Paso map of where bats with rabieshave been found(PDF)

Only laboratory tests can confirm if a bat has rabies. Children should be taught to never handle bats or other unfamiliar animals, even if they appear to be friendly, officials said.

Officials say that if a bat has entered your home or business, you should leave the bat alone. If possible, confine the bat to a room to keep it away from people and pets by closing doors leading to the room. Animal Services should be contacted.

Though people cannot get rabies just from being around a bat, people who have been exposed to a bat should seek medical advice, even if they weren’t bitten. Bite wounds should be cleaned with soap and water. If you have been bitten by a bat, you should seek medical attention, officials said.

People usually get anti-rabies shots only if they believe they have been bitten by a rabid animal. The shots should be given as soon as possible after a bite has occurred.

If you think your pet has been bitten by a bat, contact a veterinarian or Animal Services. You can help protect yourself from rabies by having your pet’s vaccinations current. To contact Animal Services for more information about bats and rabies or pet vaccinations, call 842-1000.