Rabid Bat Found in Marion County as Oregon Officials Urge Pet Vaccinations

MARION COUNTY, Ore. — A bat that tested positive for rabies has sparked an urgent appeal to pet owners in Marion County to ensure that their animals are vaccinated.

Bats are one of the main carriers of rabies in Oregon, and unvaccinated pets infected by rabies face euthanasia or strict quarantine.

Marion County Health and Human Services has issued the vaccination appeal and asks residents to avoid contact with bats.

Rabies is a Serious Viral Disease

Following the discovery of the rabid bat in the Marion area, officials remind that rabies is a serious viral disease that can be spread to humans and their pets by a bite or scratch from an infected animal.

To reduce the risk:

• Avoid all contact with bats, and keep children and pets at a safe distance.
• Refrain from feeding or handling wildlife or stray animals.
• Rabies vaccinations for pets must be administered regularly.

Oregon Law Requires Rabies Vaccinations for Dogs and Cats

After the initial vaccination, the first booster must be administered a year later, followed by boosters every three years.

Residents should contact the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (36541-388-63) to report any active bat during daylight hours. In such an event, children and pets must be kept well clear of the area in which the bat is active.

Anyone bitten by an animal or who comes into contact with a bat should immediately clean the wound and seek medical attention. Also, report the incident to Marion County Environmental Health (503-588-5346), and contact a veterinarian should the same happen to your pet.