Every summer we hear reports of people being exposed to rabid bats in the Seattle area. Recently there have been at least two sightings of interactions with people.
Rabies is a viral disease that infects the central nervous system and can be fatal in a period of weeks or months. However, prompt recognition of a potential transmission and medical treatment can fully resolve the issue.
"With a bite or scratch, a person should see a medical professional as soon as possible, even if it's not convenient ... certainly within a day. The good news is we have excellent treatment, if we just act on it," said Dr. Paul Pottinger, an infectious diseases specialist with UW Medicine.
If you had contact with a bat, or if a bat is in the room with you, you should call your medical provider immediately, in addition to reporting the exposure to Public Health at: 206-296-4774.
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