Rabid Bat Found in Laguna Niguel, Health Officials Looking For Anyone Who Came in Contact

A rabid bat was found in Laguna Niguel Regional Park over the weekend, prompting health officials this week to call on the public to come forward if they had contact with a bat near the park so they can be tested for rabies.

The bat was found at shelter 7 in the park, according to the Orange County Health Care Agency.

Once a person shows signs of rabies, it usually is fatal, making preventive treatment essential, according to HCA officials, who said medical assistance should be sought as soon as possible after exposure to a rabid animal.

Most cases of rabies in humans comes from bats, which have tiny teeth so their bites can go unnoticed, the HCA reported.

The agency recommends avoiding contact with wild animals; getting cats and dogs vaccinated for rabies; keeping unscreened windows or doors closed while sleeping; and not leaving pet food outside where it can attract wild animals.

All animal bites should be immediately washed with soap and water and the wound flushed thoroughly before calling a doctor. Report all animal bites and strays, and close off any area of a house where bats get in.

Any exposure to a bat or wild animal should be reported to the Orange County Health Care Agency at (714) 834-8180. Reports of bats, an animal bite or stray animal should be made to OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848.

—City News Service.