Sarah Yurisic, DAHI Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Posted: Thur Nov 15 2007 2:00 p.m. Post subject: Rabies Alert: Rabid Bat In Erie County November 13, 2007 Please be advised that a BAT found on Olin Avenue in Girard in Erie County has tested positive for rabies. This bat was collected and tested for rabies by the USDA Wildlife Services. This bat was found in a chimney which had no opening to the living quarters of the home. There was no human or animal exposure to this bat. When bats are found in sleeping quarters of a home, the Pennsylvania Department of Health recommends that they be tested for rabies. Any mammal that is exhibiting symptoms of rabies can be tested for rabies by the Department of Agriculture or the Department of Health. Pennsylvania law requires that all dogs and non-feral cats three months of age and older are rabies vaccinated and that booster vaccinations are administered periodically to maintain lifelong immunity. Rabies vaccine is also available for other species. As it is not possible to determine if this bat may have exposed other wild or domestic animals, please consult your private veterinary practitioner to determine your animal's needs. This is of great importance, as you need to assure that your pet is not a potential source of rabies for your family and neighbors. If you have any additional questions regarding this incident, please contact Dr. Karen Martin, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (814-332-6890). Sarah Yurisic, DAHI Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture

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Thursday, November 15, 2007