What Is Rabies? How Is It Spread?
Rabies is a viral disease that most often spreads through the bite of a rabid mammal – usually bats, but skunks, raccoons, foxes, bobcats, coyotes and dogs are also known sources of rabies.
- In Idaho, bats are the natural reservoir for rabies. Rabid bats are typically reported between March and November.
- People should not touch or handle bats out in the wild. Bites are considered the primary way rabies is transmitted.
Because rabies is a life-threatening disease, medical advice must be sought promptly. Medical therapy given soon after a possible rabies exposure is extremely effective in preventing rabies.
What Should I Do If I Was Exposed to Rabies?
- Seek medical attention.
- Contact the CDH Epidemiology Department at 208-327-8625. If it is after hours, please call Idaho State Communications and a staff member will be paged: 1-800-632-8000.
- Seek veterinary care promptly if you suspect your pet has been exposed to a rabid animal, even if your pet’s vaccinations are current.
What Can I Do to Protect Myself, Family and Pets?
- Do not touch a bat with your bare hands.
- If you have had an encounter with a bat, seek medical attention.
- If you come in contact with a bat, save the bat in a container without touching it and contact your district health department to arrange testing for rabies. Whenever possible, the bat should be tested to rule out an exposure to rabies.
- Always vaccinate your pets for rabies, including horses. Pets may encounter bats outdoors or in the home.
- Bat-proof your home or cabin by plugging all holes in the siding and maintaining tight-fitting screens on windows.
RESOURCES
Bat Encounters: What to Do
CDH poster – Download and display – Safety information for your guests.
CDC – Coming into Contact with Bats
CDC – Learning about Bats & Rabies
CDC – Rabies Information Page
CDC – Safely Capture a Bat
IDFG – Safely Capture a Bat (video)
IDHW – Rabies in Idaho
IDHW – Rabid Bats in Idaho – FAQs
CONTACT
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