ST. LOUIS–A bat found in a Clayton home has tested positive for rabies, according to the St. Louis County of Public Health. The bat was taken from the home on Apr. 21. 

This is the first bat to test positive in St. Louis County this year. The health department is reminding residents to be cautious around wildlife. 

The health department says while there were no reports of the bat biting residents, two people did decide to receive treatment, including a rabies vaccine, as a precaution. 

Officials say most local bats have small, needle-like teeth and it can sometimes be difficult to tell if a bite has occurred. 

This is what the health department suggests you do if you find a bat (alive or dead) in your home:

• Do not attempt to capture a live bat. Instead, confine it to the room where it was discovered.
• Never release a bat found in a home if it was present where people were sleeping or if it was in a room with anyone who cannot describe the nature and extent of their exposure.
• St. Louis County residents should call DPH Animal Care and Control immediately so animal control officers can collect the bat for possible rabies testing.
• If you think you may have been exposed to a bat, St. Louis County residents can call DPH communicable disease investigators (314-615-1630) to discuss the possible need for rabies vaccine. 

You can reach Animal Care and Control at  314-615-065 Mon-Fri between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Sat. 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The after business hours number is 636-529-8210.