Rabies Warning Issued as Bats Invade Utah School
In an unusual turn of events, two bats recently tested positive for rabies in Salt Lake County, Utah. Even more alarming, these flying critters decided to make a school their temporary residence, causing quite a stir.
The first bat was discovered on August 26th at 1000 West and 6970 South in Midvale, followed by the second one on August 29th at Smith Field Park in Draper. The Salt Lake County Health Department sounded the alarm in a Friday news release.
Fortunately, there have been no confirmed encounters with the bat in Draper. But, the health department is taking no chances. They’re urging parents whose children frequent the park to check if their kids had any bat encounters and to contact them if there was any bat touching involved.
Rabies – A Deadly Threat
For those who crossed paths with the Midvale bat, health officials recommend getting rabies prevention medication. Rabies in humans can lead to troubling symptoms, including insomnia, anxiety, partial paralysis, hallucinations, difficulty swallowing, and a crippling fear of water. Once symptoms show up, the disease is 100% fatal.
Bats Take Over a School
In a quirky twist, Highland High School in Salt Lake City became a temporary bat sanctuary, with hundreds of the winged creatures making their presence known. When teachers returned to the building, they were greeted with an unexpected rattling sound in the air conditioning. Investigating further, they discovered a bat nest inside the HVAC unit.
Bats, Generally Harmless but Beware of the Rabid Ones
Typically, bats are harmless to humans, minding their own business. However, rabid bats can behave strangely, appearing in unexpected places. So, if you spot a bat on the ground or in an unusual location, don’t try to catch it, harm it, or touch it. Keep your children and pets away, and promptly report it to local animal control.
It’s worth noting that intentionally harming bats is against state law in Utah, as these creatures are considered valuable for the local ecosystem.
Stay safe, keep your distance from bats, and if you ever encounter one acting suspiciously, let the experts handle it.