In a recent announcement by Arapahoe County, the first reported case of wild animal rabies in the county has been confirmed. This marks the fourth case of rabies reported in the state of Colorado this year.

The affected animal was a bat discovered in Englewood, near Quincy Avenue and Santa Fe Drive. The bat tested positive for rabies, potentially exposing two individuals to the disease. Both individuals have already begun treatment to prevent infection and illness.

Authorities are urging anyone who has come into contact with a bat in this area to contact their healthcare provider and the Arapahoe County Public Health Department for evaluation of risk and the need for treatment.

According to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, last year, Colorado saw a total of 55 reported cases of rabies. Bats accounted for the majority of these cases, with 47 instances involving these creatures.

Rabies is an extremely serious and often fatal infection for both humans and animals once symptoms have appeared. The disease is typically transmitted through bites or scratches from a rabid animal, as well as exposure to infected saliva. Although any mammal can become infected, skunks and bats are the primary carriers of the disease in Colorado.

While cases of rabies in humans and pets remain rare, precautionary measures can be taken to mitigate the risk. These include ensuring that all pets and livestock are properly vaccinated and refraining from feeding or coming into physical contact with wild animals.

Additional tips and information to prevent the spread of rabies can be found on the Arapahoe County Public Health Department's website.

The detection of rabies in a wild animal in Arapahoe County serves as a reminder for citizens to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their pets from this deadly disease.