(KTNC)-- Southeast Nebraska residents should be on the lookout for bats in their homes. The Southeast District Health Department says there has been a recent increase in the number of bats seeking shelter in home living areas. Bats normally begin seeking shelter for the fall and winter at this time of year.
Animals such as bats, skunks, and feral cats are known to carry rabies, and should be euthanized and tested for rabies if they come into contact with humans.
If you or a family member finds a bat in your house, Health Department officials say the animal should be caught and tested for rabies. In order for the bat to be tested, the head must be undamaged and the bat must be sent for testing within 24 hours.
Officials say bat bites can be easy to miss, so bats should be tested if they are found in a room with young children, older adults, or someone who is unable to communicate clearly.
Call the Southeast District Health Department at 402-274-3993 or 877-777-0424 to report any human contact with bats. More information on how to safely catch a bat for rabies testing is available at the Center for Disease Control’s website.
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