Bat Rabies Test Positive in Ferry County

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  A bat in Ferry County tested positive for rabiesNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  The test results were confirmed by the Northeast Tri County Health DistrictNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  Individuals from another Washington county were exposed to the bat“The individuals who were exposed are residents of another Washington county.”
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  The exposed individuals have begun post-exposure treatment“The exposed individuals have begun Post-Exposure Prophylaxis.”
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  Post-exposure treatment can prevent rabies if started before symptoms appear“Rabies can be prevented when post-exposure treatment is started before symptoms appear, and the exposed individuals have begun Post-Exposure Prophylaxis.”
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  Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms begin“Rabies is a viral disease of the central nervous system that is almost always fatal once symptoms begin.”
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  Treatment is effective when given early“Rabies can be prevented when post-exposure treatment is started before symptoms appear, and the exposed individuals have begun Post-Exposure Prophylaxis.”
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  The health district worked with the Washington State Department of Health“Because bats in Washington state can carry rabies, the District worked with the Washington State Department of Health to test the bat.”
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  The health district coordinated follow-up care for the affected individuals“The District has coordinated with that county and the Washington State Department of Health to support follow-up recommendations for treatment.”
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  Residents are reminded that bats in Washington state are the only animals known to carry rabies“Any warm-blooded mammal, including humans, can get rabies; however, bats are the only animals in Washington state known to carry rabies.”
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  The health district advises closing windows and doors at nightNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  The health district advises covering attic vents“Cover attic vents and cap chimneys.”
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  The health district advises ensuring pets are vaccinated against rabies“Washington state law requires dogs, cats, and ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies and revaccinated according to veterinary guidance and vaccine manufacturer instructions (WAC 246-100-197). If your dog, cat, or ferret is not vaccinated, or behind on it’s vaccinations, please contact your veterinarian to get them current on their vaccinations.”
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  Contact information for the health district is provided for further questionsNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.