The Texas Department of State Health Service notified the Northeast Texas Public Health District Friday, July 17, that one bat submitted for analysis tested positive for rabies.

The bat was found in the 3600 block Rock Creek in Tyler. The known individuals with possible exposure have been identified and addressed.

According to health officials, citizens are advised not to handle bats, skunks, raccoons or other wild animals, and it is important for children to tell their parents of any contact with wild animals or any sick animals. Any one who knows of a person being bitten by an animal must report the bite incident to the Smith County Rabies Control Authority for proper investigation.

This is the fifth laboratory confirmed case of rabies. This makes the third bat found in Tyler and two bats for Smith County for this year.

Smith County Rabies Control Authority warns citizens to confirm that their dogs and cats are currently vaccinated for rabies. City of Tyler Ordinance and Smith County Ordinance require annual rabies vaccinations for all dogs and cats. Preventive immunization for rabies is the only effective defense against this always fatal disease.

Anyone with questions on rabies control, may contact City of Tyler Animal Control at (903) 535- 0045.