In a recent statement, officials from San Mateo County have revealed that about two bats a year test positive for rabies in the county. While this may seem like a concerning statistic, it is important to note that the county has a strong and effective rabies control program in place to protect its residents and their pets.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is most commonly transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, such as a bat. In San Mateo County, bats are the primary carriers of rabies, making up 90% of all reported cases. However, it is important to note that not all bats carry the virus and only a small percentage of bats actually contract and transmit rabies.
The fact that only two bats a year test positive for rabies in San Mateo County is a testament to the success of the county’s rabies control program. This program includes measures such as public education, surveillance, and vaccination of domestic animals. These efforts have been successful in preventing the spread of rabies and protecting the health of the community.
One of the key components of the rabies control program is public education. The county regularly conducts awareness campaigns to educate residents about the importance of avoiding contact with bats and other wildlife, and what to do if they encounter a bat. This includes avoiding touching or handling bats, as well as ensuring that pets are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations.
In addition, the county has a robust surveillance system in place to monitor the spread of rabies. This involves testing any animal that has potentially come into contact with a bat or has shown signs of the disease. This allows for early detection and prompt response to prevent the spread of the virus.
The county also has a strict policy of vaccinating domestic animals against rabies. This not only protects pets from the disease, but also serves as a barrier to prevent the spread of rabies to humans. In fact, there has not been a reported case of rabies in a domestic animal in San Mateo County in over 20 years.
The low number of rabies cases in San Mateo County is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the county’s animal control and public health officials. Their efforts have been successful in keeping the community safe from this deadly disease.
However, it is important for residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their pets. If you come across a bat, do not touch it and contact animal control immediately. It is also important to ensure that your pets are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations.
In conclusion, while the news of two bats testing positive for rabies in San Mateo County may sound alarming, it is important to understand that the county has a strong and effective rabies control program in place. The low number of cases is a testament to the success of this program and the dedication of the officials working to keep the community safe. By working together and taking necessary precautions, we can continue to keep rabies at bay in San Mateo County.
