A dead bat found in a rural area east of West Frankfort had rabies.
The Franklin-Williamson Bi-County Health Department says there was no human exposure to the rabid bat. To avoid exposure to rabies, the health department says avoid contact with any wild, unfamiliar, or stray animals and report animals that are acting abnormally to local animal control. Care should be taken to avoid handling bats or any other wild animal with bare hands. If an animal must be moved, it is best to use a shovel and if the animal must be touched, wear heavy gloves. Health experts say any mammal can get rabies. The most common carriers of rabies are raccoons, skunks, bats, foxes, and coyotes. Pets can also get rabies...with cats, cattle, and dogs the most frequently reported. If bitten by an animal, you are required to report the bite to animal control or the local health department and seek medical attention.