Key Takeaway:
- A rabid bat was found in a Fremont residential neighborhood, but no human or animal exposures have been reported.
- Alameda County officials are investigating because the bat was discovered near a sidewalk accessible to pedestrians and pets.
- Residents are urged to avoid contact with bats and wildlife, vaccinate pets, and seek immediate medical care after any potential exposure.
A bat that tested positive for rabies was found near a sidewalk in a residential Fremont neighborhood, prompting a public health investigation after authorities determined it may have been within reach of pedestrians and animals. No human or animal exposures have been reported, but officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and avoid contact with wildlife.
Officials investigate rabid bat found near sidewalk
The bat was collected on May 26 by Alameda County Vector Control Services near Palo Verde Common in South Fremont, according to a news release from the Fremont Police Department. Subsequent testing confirmed the animal was infected with rabies, a viral disease that attacks the brain and nervous system.
Because the bat was discovered near a sidewalk accessible to residents and pets, Alameda County Vector Control launched an investigation and distributed notices to nearby homes.
Authorities said there are currently no known cases of exposure involving people or animals connected to the incident.
Authorities urge residents to avoid wildlife contact
Officials warned that rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but it can be prevented through prompt medical treatment after exposure.
“Rabies is a fatal disease caused by a virus that affects the brain and nervous system,” the Fremont Police Department said in its release.
The department urged anyone who may have touched or been bitten by the bat to immediately seek medical attention and contact the Alameda County Public Health Acute Communicable Disease Program.
“It is preventable if the exposed person or animal receives a series of rabies vaccine shots as soon as possible after exposure,” the department said.
Health officials also reminded residents to keep pets vaccinated and avoid contact with wild animals, including bats, skunks, foxes, coyotes, and raccoons, which can carry the virus.
Community asked to take preventive measures
Authorities said unvaccinated dogs and cats face a heightened risk of contracting and spreading rabies if exposed to infected wildlife.
The incident follows another rabid bat case reported in Fremont’s Glenmoor neighborhood in March, according to a local broadcaster.
Officials are encouraging residents to reduce the likelihood of wildlife encounters by securing trash, removing outdoor pet food, and eliminating potential animal hiding places around homes.
They also recommend keeping dogs confined to private property, promptly reporting animal bites, and sealing openings larger than one-fourth of an inch to prevent bats from entering homes.
“If you find a sick or dead bat in your home or yard, do not touch it,” the Fremont Police Department said. “It is very important to avoid any direct contact.”
Residents who encounter sick or dead wildlife are advised to contact Fremont Animal Services or the Alameda County Public Health Department for assistance.
Public health officials said awareness and preventive measures remain the most effective tools for reducing the risk of rabies exposure in the community.
