LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department is warning residents that a bat found near Berea Road and the Kentucky Horse Park has tested positive for rabies. The bat was found outside a residence on Monday, June 22, in the 40511 zip code. According to the health department's announcement, the resident reported that no people or pets were exposed to the animal. Environmental Health staff are posting Rabid Animal Placards in the affected area.

Rabies is a fatal but preventable disease that can be transmitted through a bite or contact with an infected animal's saliva through the eyes, nose, mouth, or an open wound. Bats have exceptionally small teeth, and a bite mark may not always be visible, health officials warn. Residents who believe they or their pets may have had contact with any animal acting abnormally are urged to contact the health department immediately.

The health department is urging residents to take several precautions. Residents should keep pets current on rabies vaccinations and vaccinate immediately if their pet is not protected. People should avoid handling, feeding, or approaching wild animals or any animal behaving abnormally. If a bat is discovered inside a home, residents should not release it but should contain it if possible and contact the health department. Anyone who believes they or a family member has been exposed should seek immediate medical attention.

Post-exposure prophylaxis is nearly 100 percent successful in preventing rabies in humans when administered promptly, according to state health information. Treatment consists of a dose of human rabies immune globulin and rabies vaccine given on the day of exposure and then additional vaccine doses on days 3, 7, and 14.

To report a potential exposure, residents should contact LFCHD's Division of Environmental Health at 859-231-9791.