Rabies alert issued in Harney County after local bat tests positive

HARNEY COUNTY-*Location of the bat was not disclosed by the Harney County Health Department*

Health officials have issued a public safety advisory following confirmation that a bat collected in rural Harney County tested positive for rabies. The test results were verified by the Oregon State Veterinary Laboratory. The bat was safely collected by a local resident and euthanized by a veterinarian after it was spotted exhibiting unusual behavior and being pawed by a feral cat near outbuildings on private property. Public health authorities emphasize that while rabies is a fatal viral disease if left untreated, prompt medical care and preventive measures make it entirely preventable.

Local health officials urge residents to protect their families, pets, and livestock by taking essential precautions:

• Vaccinate Animals: Ensure all domestic pets and livestock are current on their rabies vaccinations.
• Avoid Handling Wildlife: Do not touch or pick up wild animals, particularly bats that appear sick, injured, or disoriented.
• Educate Children: Teach children to stay away from wildlife and to never touch a bat, even if it appears harmless, immobile, or dead.

Direct contact with a bat presents a significant risk for rabies transmission. If human exposure occurs, immediately wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and contact a healthcare provider or public health official right away. If a pet or livestock comes into physical contact with a bat or suspect wild animal, contact a veterinarian immediately.

For additional questions or to report a potential exposure, contact the Harney County Health Department at 541-573-2271. Further guidance and educational resources can also be found online through the Oregon Health Authority and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

---

---

• 
• 
• 
• 

---

---

Elkhorn Media Group