Bat found in Roger Williams Park tests positive for rabies

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Health said that a bat found near the carousel and Japanese Garden at Roger Williams Park tested positive for rabies.

The bat was found on the ground on May 21 and was submitted for testing on May 23 after being euthanized.

RIDOH said that anyone who may have had contact with the bat should should immediately call the Center for Acute Infectious Disease Epidemiology at 401-222-2577, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or 401-276-8046 after hours.

“The rabies virus infects the central nervous system,” the department added. “If a person does not receive the appropriate medical care after a rabies exposure, the virus can cause disease in the brain, ultimately resulting in death. Rabies treatment must be started as soon as possible after exposure.’

In addition, vaccination of pets prevents them from contracting rabies and prevents people from becoming exposed to rabies through their pets. 

For more information, visit www.health.ri.gov/rabies.