As bats become more active this time of year, the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention is reminding Mainers and visitors to vaccinate their pets and livestock against rabies.

Bats, foxes, raccoons and skunks are the most common animals infected with rabies in Maine. As of July 24, six bats had tested positive in Maine this year. Last year, bats made up 45% of the 458 animals sent to the Maine state lab for rabies testing. Nine of those bats tested positive for rabies.

“Bats are most active in Maine from late July into early September, however bat exposures can occur during any time of year,” Maine CDC stated in a news release.

Rabies is fatal in mammals – including humans -- if left untreated. However, rabies in humans is rare, with the last reported case in 1937, according to Maine CDC.

Rabies is spread through the biting or scratching of infected mammals, or by contact with an infected animal’s brain or spinal cord. The virus does not spread in blood, urine, feces, skunk spray or dried saliva.

Handling a bat without gloves could lead to rabies exposure, Maine CDC warns.

Exposure may also occur in instances where one wakes up to find a bat in their bedroom or in a room with an unaccompanied child or incapacitated adult.  Pets or livestock holding a bat in their mouths or found in the same area as the bat, like a living room or barn, could also lead to exposure.

Maine CDC recommends, in the event of exposure, attempting to safely capture the bat while wearing gloves. Put a container over the bat once it lands, then gently slide cardboard underneath to trap the bat. Do not damage its head. Only release the bat outdoors if it did not have contact with people or pets.

Contact a game warden or local animal control officer who will take the bat for rabies testing.

Any bites or scratches should be washed immediately with soap and warm water for 10-15 minutes. Those who may have been exposed should contact their health care provider.

A rabid animal may show a variety of symptoms or no symptoms at all. Maine CDC says to always be cautious around wildlife, including bats or any animals you do not know.

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