Second rabid bat turns up in Fremont

A second bat found in Fremont has tested positive for rabies, police announced Tuesday.

The live, but sick bat was picked up by a dog near the playground at Niles Elementary School on Friday. The dog’s owner took the bat to the Tri-City Animal Shelter, and the test results came back positive on Monday, according to police. The dog’s vaccinations were up to date, but it will be quarantined for 30 days as a precaution, police said.

The first rabid bat was found March 6 near the entrance to the Wally Pond Irvington Community Center located at 41885 Blacow Road, and police were notified of the positive test results last week.

Any person or pets that came into contact with either bat could’ve been exposed to rabies, a fatal disease that affects the brain and nervous system. It can be prevented, however, with a series of vaccine shots administered as soon as possible after the exposure.

Humans and animals are urged to avoid contact with bats and other animals that can carry rabies, including skunks, foxes, coyotes, badgers, weasels and raccoons. People are further urged not to touch dead animals.

Anyone who may have been exposed to the bat is encouraged to call the Alameda County Public Health Department at (510) 257-3250. Anyone who believes their pet may have come into contact with the bats is urged to call Fremont Animal Services at (510) 790-6630.

Reports of sick or dead wildlife in Fremont can be made by contacting the city’s Animal Services at (510) 790-6630 or Fremont police at (510) 790-6800.

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