As bat activity increases with warmer temperatures, residents should be aware that a bat found in
Gypsum has tested positive for rabies.
Bats consume thousands of tons of night-flying insects annually and are beneficial to a healthy ecosystem. However, Eagle County Public Health Director Jennifer Ludwig said bats may carry diseases that can spread to people and pets.
While most bats do not carry rabies, grounded or easily handled bats or other wild animals are most likely sick or injured and should be avoided by untrained people.
Rabies is caused by a virus transmitted by the bite of an infected animal and is almost always fatal to humans. Rabies also can be transmitted by a scratch or if the animal’s saliva gets into a cut or break in the skin.
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