San Mateo County health officials have confirmed that a bat found in a local park has tested positive for rabies. The discovery was made on October 24, near the Little People’s Park playground at the Portola Valley Town Center. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being cautious around wildlife, particularly bats, which are known carriers of this deadly disease.
Dr. Kismet Baldwin-Santana, the San Mateo County health officer, stated, “Encounters with rabid animals in San Mateo County are very rare, but we take every case seriously.” She emphasized the critical nature of avoiding direct contact with bats and other wild animals, even if they appear sick or injured. Additionally, Dr. Baldwin-Santana urged residents to keep their pets’ rabies vaccinations up to date to mitigate any potential risks.
Health officials stress that anyone who has had contact with a bat should seek medical attention immediately due to the risk of rabies. It is crucial to understand that once symptoms of rabies appear, there is currently no effective treatment available. As of now, no direct exposures related to this incident have been identified.
Rabies is a serious viral disease that is preventable but can be deadly if left untreated. The virus is typically spread through the saliva of infected animals, primarily through bites. However, it can also be transmitted in rare cases via contact with infected saliva or brain tissue on broken skin or through mucous membranes such as the eyes, nose, or mouth.
In the event of a positive rabies test in animals, the San Mateo County Health Department conducts thorough investigations. They reach out to individuals who may have been exposed and provide necessary medical guidance. If there are no identifiable exposures, public notices are issued to inform the community. On average, San Mateo County sees around two rabid bats each year. In 2023 alone, two bats have tested positive for rabies, including one discovered in Half Moon Bay on October 24, which has since posed no further risk.
If you encounter a bat that appears sick, injured, or deceased, health officials recommend reporting the situation to the Peninsula Humane Society at 650-340-7022. It is vital for public safety to address these encounters promptly to prevent any potential spread of rabies within the community.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and informed about rabies and to take necessary precautions when interacting with wildlife. Keeping pets vaccinated and avoiding contact with wild animals are key steps in preventing rabies transmission.