News Release
August 14, 2008

Contact:
Dave Volkel
Environmental Health Services
303-271-5730

Possible Rabies Exposure

Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) officials are looking for anyone that may have come into contact with a bat that tested positive for rabies. The bat was reported to Jefferson County Animal Control by a citizen Tuesday afternoon, August 12, 2008. Animal control responded to Columbine Hills Park (S Kendall and W Elmhurst) where they found the bat in the parking lot near some bleachers hissing and behaving strangely.

Two boys of middle school age reported the bat to a local veterinary clinic nearby and were asked if they had handled the bat, both responded no.

"These boys did everything they were suppose to do. We are thankful that they knew enough not to touch it, but to report the behavior to a veterinary clinic." said Dave Volkel, JCDHE Environmental Health Services. "We are still concerned, however that others may have come in contact with this bat and if that's the case those individuals will need to seek immediate medical attention."

State and Jefferson County health officials agree that even seemingly insignificant contact with the bat may be sufficient to transmit the rabies virus. Rabies is spread most often through contact with bat saliva, as a result of bites or from exposure to cuts on the skin. In some instances, people may be unaware that they were bitten and may not see puncture wounds, but were aware the bat was in close contact with them.

Jefferson County and Colorado residents can be reassured that only a small percentage of bats are likely to be carrying rabies, but it is important to avoid close contact with them, and to contact local animal control for assistance with collection for rabies testing. Bats should be collected for rabies testing when possible if they are observed to be behaving strangely, or when they may have had contact with people or their pets--particularly within the home or other enclosed buildings.

Anyone with information should call the

Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment at 303-271-5700.

For more information on rabies and prevention tips please visit our web site at

http://health.jeffco.us

or

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at

http://www.cdc.gov