Another bat has tested positive for rabies was found in Fremont -- the second rabid bat found in the area in less than a week. And a third dead bat was found, prompting officials to test that animal for rabies, too.
Health officials said the latest discovery was discovered Tuesday on Third Street, and the bat has been sent off for rabies testing. A second bat was reported to health officials on Friday when a dog picked up the sick bat near the Niles Elementary School playground.
The dog's owner took the bat to the Tri-City Animal Shelter, and the test results came back positive on Monday, according to police. The dog's vaccinations were up to date, but it will be quarantined for 30 days as a precaution, police said.
On March 6, a bat was found in the Irvington area and also tested positive for rabies.
The bat was found dead on the ground near the entrance to the Wally Pond Irvington Community Center located at 41885 Blacow Road.
Rabies can be a fatal disease that is passed by touching the saliva or brain tissue of an infected animal or being bitten by one. The virus impacts a person's brain and nervous system.
Anyone exposed to the rabid bat is asked to get a series of vaccine shots from their doctor to prevent the spread of the disease.
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Pet owners can take any animals that were exposed to the bat to a veterinarian for a rabies vaccine booster shot.
Most human cases of rabies in the U.S. come from bats, which are small animals with tiny teeth. Their bites are barely visible and can go unnoticed.
People who are exposed to rabies but don't get the vaccine can develop symptoms one to three months after exposure.
Symptoms of rabies include difficulty in walking, speaking or swallowing. People may become confused or agitated and may also suffer from hallucinations or nerve pain.
Those who believe they made contact with the rabid bat are asked to call the county public health department at 510-257-3250.
Bay City News contributed to this report.
