‘Very dangerous disease’: Experts urge caution after rabid bat found in Fresno

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – Fresno County residents are asked to stay vigilant after a rabid bat was found outside of a business in North Fresno.

The Fresno County Department of Public Health cannot disclose the specific business but mentioned that a customer found the bat on the sidewalk. No human exposure has been reported.

“Once it cools down in the evening, they’ll come out to feed,” said Leticia Berber, health educator at Fresno County Department of Public Health. Berber, who wants to educate the public on the seriousness of rabies, says if you see a bat during the day, report it immediately, as bats are typically nocturnal. “Very dangerous disease that can be fatal if not treated,” she says.

Bats have such small teeth that you might not even realize if you have been bitten or scratched. “If you do get bitten by an animal that is infected with rabies, once those symptoms appear, that is too late. There’s nothing that the doctors can do,” Berber explained.

In October, 60-year-old teacher Leah Seneng found a bat in her classroom in Dos Palos. She scooped it up to take it outside, but it bit her. It didn’t cross her mind that she might have been infected with rabies. She passed away weeks later.

“Bats are active right now in Fresno County, March through November,” Berber warns. But John Horton, owner of Modern Wildlife Solutions, also wants to remind us that bats are beneficial.

“They eat about one-third of their weight in insects every night. So they’re a positive feature in the ecosystem,” he shared. Horton provides pest control services. When he receives calls about bats that are too close to people but appear healthy, he releases them into rural areas. “And kind of let nature take its course,” Horton added.

Bats aren’t the only animals to observe closely for rabies. Berber says that if dogs, cats, or raccoons are acting strangely, approaching you, or seem to have difficulty walking, report them immediately to the health department. You can reach them at 559-600-3200.