Following the recent discovery of a rabies-infected bat in the Kansas City metropolitan area, public health officials are warning area residents about the risk of rabies exposure. The Clay County Public Health Center issued a news release on Friday saying a bat found in Clay County tested positive for rabies. The test was confirmed by the Missouri State Public Health Laboratory. Officials are using this opportunity to remind residents of the risk of rabies exposure through contact with bats. Rabies can be spread through the saliva of an infected animal in a bite or scratch. If left untreated, it is almost always fatal. “It is important to remember to avoid contact with wild animals, especially bats and skunks, as even if they do not appear ill, they can be transmitting rabies,” Deputy Director Ashley Wegner said. “If you believe you have been in contact with a rabies-infected animal, seek medical attention immediately.” Officials added that residents should also make sure all indoor and outdoor pets are up to date on rabies vaccinations and never let pets run loose. Bats, in particular, have small teeth and may not always leave obvious bite marks. Officials say anyone who has come into contact with a bat should seek medical attention. Anyone who sees an animal exhibiting unusual behavior is urged to contact their local animal control agency. According to the Clay County Public Health Center, 33 animals have tested positive for rabies in Missouri in 2023.
Public health officials are warning residents of the risk of rabies infection after rabid bats were recently found in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
The Clay County Public Health Center issued a news release Friday saying a bat found in Clay County has tested positive for rabies.
The test was confirmed by the Missouri State Public Health Laboratory.
Authorities are using the opportunity to remind the public of the risk of contracting rabies through contact with bats.
Rabies is transmitted through saliva during a bite or scratch by an infected animal, and if left untreated, it is almost certain to cause death.
“It’s important to remember to avoid contact with wild animals, especially bats and skunks, as they can carry rabies even if they don’t appear ill,” Deputy Chief Ashley Wegner said. “If you think you may have come into contact with an animal that has rabies, seek medical attention immediately.”
Officials also added that people should make sure all indoor and outdoor pets are vaccinated against rabies and not let pets run loose.
Bats, in particular, have small teeth that may not always leave obvious bite marks, and authorities say anyone who has come into contact with a bat should seek medical attention.
If you see an animal exhibiting unusual behavior, we ask that you contact your local animal control authorities.
In 2023, 33 animals in Missouri tested positive for rabies, according to the Clay County Public Health Center.
