Bat found in Livingston County tests positive for rabies, health officials say

A bat found in Livingston County, Michigan, has tested positive for rabies, the local health department said on Thursday.

Officials said the finding marks the first rabies case in an animal reported in the county this year. They have yet to disclose where in the region the bat was located. 

Rabies is a deadly virus that spreads to people from the saliva of infected animals, according to the Mayo Clinic. It's usually transmitted through a bite from a bat, coyote, fox, raccoon or skunk.

Livingston County health officials say bat bites can be very small and people may be exposed to rabies even if they don't see a bite or scratch.

According to health officials, exposure to rabies can also happen when a person touches a bat's saliva or brain tissue or wakes up with one in their bedroom. Children, people with developmental disabilities and intoxicated individuals may also be considered exposed if they are in a room with a bat.

Anyone in Livingston County who believes they've been exposed is asked to capture the bat, report the exposure by filling out a form on the health department's website and call department staff at 517‑552‑6882 for testing guidance and next steps.

Health officials say people can prevent rabies by keeping bats out of homes, vaccinating their pets and washing bites or scratches with soap and water before seeking medical help.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources says the state is home to nine species of bats.