Introduction
As the days grow shorter and the nights grow cooler, you might find yourself outdoors more. And while you’re enjoying the fresh air, you may also notice bats flitting about. Bats are a vital part of our ecosystem, but they can also be dangerous to our health.
What Is Rabies?
You may have heard of rabies before, but do you know what it is? Rabies is a virus that attacks the central nervous system. Once infected, the virus travels to the brain where it causes inflammation, coma and, in some cases, death.
There is no cure for rabies and it can only be treated with post-exposure prophylaxis, or PEP. This involves a series of injections that prevent the virus from spreading and can save your life.
That’s why it’s so important to be vigilant about bats. They may seem innocuous, but they can carry a deadly virus. If you see a bat in your home or business, don’t hesitate to call a professional.
How Do Bats Carry Rabies?
Bats aren’t just spooky, they can also be dangerous to your health. One of the ways in which bats can be harmful is that they’re known carriers of rabies.
Rabies is a deadly virus that affects the brain and spinal cord. It’s most commonly spread through the saliva of an infected animal, and can be fatal if left untreated. Bats aren’t the only animals that can carry rabies, but they are one of the most common carriers.
In addition to rabies, bats can also carry a dangerous fungus called Histoplasma capsulatum. This fungus is found in the bat’s droppings, and if inhaled can cause a respiratory infection called histoplasmosis.
What Are the Symptoms of Rabies?
You might be wondering what the symptoms of rabies are. While rabies can vary from person to person, there are some common symptoms. These include fever, headache, and general weakness or discomfort.
In later stages of the disease, more serious symptoms can develop, such as confusion, hallucinations, and seizures. If you experience any of these symptoms after being bitten by a bat—or any other animal—it’s important to seek medical help right away.
How Can You Protect Yourself From Rabies?
There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from rabies. First, if you think you’ve been exposed to rabies, wash the wound with soap and water and see a doctor immediately. Second, if you’re bitten by a bat (or any other animal), try to capture the animal so it can be tested for rabies. And third, don’t touch bats or other wild animals, even if they’re dead.
What to Do if You’re Bitten by a Bat
If you are bitten by a bat, the first thing you should do is wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. Then, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible and make sure to tell the medical professional that you were bitten by a bat. The CDC recommends that you receive a series of vaccinations within 24 hours of being bitten.
FAQs About Bats and Rabies
Below are some common questions about bats, rabies, and how to deal with a bat infestation.
– Do all bats have rabies?
No, not all bats have rabies. In fact, most bats do not have rabies. However, because bats can carry the disease without showing any symptoms, it is important to take precautions if you find a bat in your home or business.
– How can I tell if a bat has rabies?
There is no sure way to tell if a bat has rabies. If you find a bat in your home or business, it is best to assume that it is infected and take precautions accordingly.
– How do I get rid of a bat infestation?
If you have bats in your home or business, it is important to call a professional for help. Bats are protected by law in many states, so it is important to make sure that you are taking the proper steps to remove them safely and legally.
Conclusion
In short, bats are dangerous to your health because they can carry rabies and their feces are a breeding ground for a dangerous fungus. If you find bats in your home or business, it is important to take precautions to protect yourself and your family from these potential threats.