COPPERAS COVE, Texas (KWTX) – A dead bat found by a Copperas Cove Animal Control officer tested positive for rabies, the city announced Tuesday.
The officer collected the bat on April 2 in the vicinity of Crenshaw Circle and the animal was sent for rabies tests at the Texas Department of Health Laboratory in Austin.
On April 6, Copperas Cove Animal Control receives notice that the bat is infected with rabies.
The City said rabies infection is most common in bats, guavas, raccoons, stinkers and foxes.
Signs of rabies infection in humans may include, but are not limited to, fever, headache, fatigue, breathing problems, possible paralysis or hyperactivity, and coma.
Signs of rabies infection in pets may include fever, chewing at the site of infection or bite, erratic behavior, aimless walking, general restlessness, skin irritation, sensitivity to light, aggression in animals that are not normally aggressive, and generally unnatural behavior.
Residents are warned not to approach, touch or make contact with wild animals, and to prevent pets from having contact with wild animals.
Homeowners in the area should also protect outside areas by closing trash cans and not leaving pet food outside.
Anyone who observes a wild animal behaving strangely should contact Animal Control immediately.
The City says any resident who believes they or their pet came into contact with a bat or other wild animal in the area should contact Copperas Cove Animal Control immediately (254) 547-5584.
After hours, you can contact the Copperas Cove Police Station at (254) 547-8222).
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