Bat found on Georgia university’s campus tests positive for rabies

SAVANNAH, Ga. — Health officials are warning students at a Georgia university after a rabid bat was found on campus.

The Chatham County Health Department said a bat was found Feb. 18 on a porch at Savannah State’s College of Business Administration building.

The bat was taken to a local veterinarian office, where it tested positive for rabies.

The health department is interviewing students who had contact with the bat to see if they need a rabies vaccination, according to a news release.

If anyone came into contact with a bat around Feb. 18, they are asked to contact the Chatham County Health Department’s Environmental Health Office at 912-356-2160.

“This is an important reminder to everyone in the community about the danger of interacting with wild animals. Several species of wild animals that are native to coastal Georgia – including raccoons, foxes, and bats – can carry rabies. Rabies can be spread to humans through bites, scratches, and other contact,” the department said.

[RELATED: Georgia university’s student center shut down due to roach infestation]

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

© 2020 Cox Media Group