I just opened this email and found it interesting. Sure, we all know it's possible to get a bat in your house, but apparently they can take cover in some unexpected places....
In its entirety
RABIES ALERT!
One More Rabid Bat in Erie County
September 19, 2008
Please be advised that a bat found at a home on West 9th Street in Erie, Erie County has tested positive for rabies. This bat was found inside a coat sleeve on a coat rack inside the home. When the homeowner put on her coat, the bat bit her on the finger. She will be receiving rabies postexposure prophylaxis.
No animals are known to have been exposed to this bat.
Pennsylvania law requires that all dogs and non-feral cats three months of age and older are rabies vaccinated and that booster vaccinations are administered periodically to maintain lifelong immunity. Rabies vaccine is also available for other species.
As it is not possible to determine if this bat may have exposed other wild or domestic animals, please consult your private veterinary practitioner to determine your animal's needs. This is of great importance, as you need to assure that your pet is not a potential source of rabies for your family and neighbors.
If you have any additional questions regarding this incident, please contact Dr. Anthony LaBarbera, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (717-783-9550).
Karen Martin, VMD
Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services
Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture
Region 1 Office
13410 Dunham Road
Meadville, PA 16336
In its entirety
RABIES ALERT!
One More Rabid Bat in Erie County
September 19, 2008
Please be advised that a bat found at a home on West 9th Street in Erie, Erie County has tested positive for rabies. This bat was found inside a coat sleeve on a coat rack inside the home. When the homeowner put on her coat, the bat bit her on the finger. She will be receiving rabies postexposure prophylaxis.
No animals are known to have been exposed to this bat.
Pennsylvania law requires that all dogs and non-feral cats three months of age and older are rabies vaccinated and that booster vaccinations are administered periodically to maintain lifelong immunity. Rabies vaccine is also available for other species.
As it is not possible to determine if this bat may have exposed other wild or domestic animals, please consult your private veterinary practitioner to determine your animal's needs. This is of great importance, as you need to assure that your pet is not a potential source of rabies for your family and neighbors.
If you have any additional questions regarding this incident, please contact Dr. Anthony LaBarbera, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (717-783-9550).
Karen Martin, VMD
Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services
Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture
Region 1 Office
13410 Dunham Road
Meadville, PA 16336