Rabid Bat Found In Central Point

The Jackson County Health Department says a bat found at a home in Central Point has tested positive for rabies.

This is the second rabid bat found in the county this year. A bat from Medford tested positive August 5th.

The health department says this is a reminder for people and their pets to stay away from bats which may be sick, flopping around, and acting "unbat like." Trying to handle or pick up a sick bat may result in a bite or exposure, which will probably require rabies shots.

Cats are naturally attracted to bats, and very few cats are adequately vaccinated for rabies. If a cat finds a bat, Federal and State law requires that they be immediately euthanized or have to endure 6 months quarantine. If the bat is available for testing, it can be tested for rabies at the cat owner's expense at Oregon State University (currently $70).

Jackson County Animal Shelter has scheduled a rabies clinic on Saturday, Oct. 18, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The shelter is at 5595 S. Pacific Highway in Phoenix.