A bat found in a condominium complex in Del Cerro has tested positive for rabies.
A building worker found the bat at Adobe Falls Condominium Complex on Nov. 23. Without touching it, the worker collected the animal. It was delivered to Project Wildlife, where it died two days later.
The County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) tested the bat on Nov. 27 and found it did die from rabies. So far, no human or animal contact with the creature has been reported.
If a human contracts rabies, the disease can be fatal without immediate treatment, according to Eric McDonald, the HHSA deputy public health officer.
Rabies is transmitted three ways: if a rabid animal bites a person or animal, if a rabid animal's saliva comes into contact with a cut or abrasion, or if the saliva gets into a person's mucous membranes, like the eyes, nose or mouth.
This year, eleven bats have been found with rabies in the county.
According to the HHSA, you can prevent rabies by avoiding contact with wild or unknown animals, making sure pets' vaccinations are up-to-date, and receiving immediate medical care if you are exposed to a strange and potentially rabid animal.
If you do come into contact with an animal with rabies, wash the affected area with soap and water and get medical attention quickly.
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about rabies.
