Rabid bats, exposures prompt health advisory

SPOKANE, Wash. – The recent identification of two rabid bats in Spokane County, with one human exposure and one exposure to a pet cat, is prompting Spokane Regional Health District officials to issue this health advisory. Individuals are reminded to avoid contact with bats and pet owners are encouraged to vaccinate their dogs and cats against the fatal disease.

“The individual who had contact with the bat is currently receiving vaccines for rabies,” said Dr. Joel McCullough, the district’s interim health officer. “Prompt administration of this treatment is highly effective in preventing rabies...