Bat found in north Georgetown tests positive for rabies

A downed bat that was found on Thursday in an outdoor area on private property on the north side of Georgetown has tested positive for rabies. The dead bat was found on property in the 2100 block of N. Austin Avenue.

A resident reported the bat to Georgetown Animal Services on Thursday afternoon. An animal control officer retrieved the bat and took it to the Texas Department of State Health Services lab in Austin for testing. Positive rabies virus results on the bat were reported to Animal Services late in the afternoon yesterday.

Animal control does not know if any people or pets were in contact with the bat, but is notifying those in the vicinity. In cases where a person or pet may have had contact with a bat, or to report a downed bat, residents should contact Animal Services via the non-emergency 24-hour number for the Georgetown Police Department at (512) 930-3510. An animal control officer will respond to the report. According to Animal Services, bats should not be handled or picked up if found.

For questions or concerns about rabies, contact the Williamson County and Cities Health District at (512) 943-3660. If you have concerns about possible contact with a bat, contact the Health District or your health care provider.

For information about rabies in animals, including signs of rabies, see the Texas Department of State Health Services rabies page at Rabies information.

It is important to protect pets by making sure they have a current rabies vaccination. The Georgetown Animal Shelter is hosting a low-cost vaccine clinic on Saturday, May 20, from 8:30 to 11 a.m.

For more information, contact the shelter at (512) 930-3592. The Georgetown Animal Shelter is located at 110 W.L. Walden Drive near the McMaster Athletic Complex.