Las Palmas bat tests positive for rabies

A bat tested positive for rabies in the Las Palmas area of unincorporated Monterey County but no humans have been affected by the virus, Monterey County public health officials said Thursday.

A sample taken on Monday confirmed the results and one pet was exposed to the virus, according to health officials.

The officials warned owners to make sure their pets have received rabies vaccinations, and said horses, sheep, goats, pigs and cattle are often susceptible to infection from wild animals.

Skunks and bats are known to carry the disease and people should avoid contact with the animals. If anyone spots a wild animal that is dead, acting sick or abnormal, they can call animal services at (831) 769-8850.