The imposing brown bat
There are two types of brown bat--the Little (Myotis lucifugus) and the Big (Eptesicus fuscus). Both species are found all over North America, the Little Brown Bat being the most common, all the way from Alaska to Texas. Bats are the most common cause of human rabies contraction in the U.S.
Brown Bats
The nocturnal hunter.
Brown bats are nocturnal mammals that live in groups of thousands, typically dwelling in cave-like structures that can be naturally occurring or man-made. In the United States, their population has grown in sync with the human population, as they have increased access to places all across the country that serve as perfect homes, breeding spots and hunting grounds. These bats live long lives, sometimes up to 30 years, and they are among the most successful mammalian predators in North America.
Human Contact
Be careful with unfamiliar animals when outdoors.
With increased populations come a greater likelihood of contact between humans and bats. Misconceptions often lead people to believe that all bats carry rabies and that we should be afraid of them. Bats can contract rabies because they are mammals like us. They also suffer symptoms and die from the disease just as we do. Only bats that behave strangely should be treated with extreme caution. Symptoms include appearing alone during the day, not flying, being fearless of humans and even just showing up in abnormal places, such as office buildings. Bats behaving like this should be avoided and reported to animal control authorities.
Rabies
Rabies can be fatal.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "The rabies virus infects the central nervous system, ultimately causing disease in the brain and death." It is incurable once onset, but it is possible to prevent if the victim is vaccinated when specific serious symptoms become apparent. After contact with an infected animal, signs of infection can often take weeks or even months to appear. The first signs are flu-like, but as the disease progresses the infected person can exhibit bizarre symptoms, such as hysteria and maniacal behavior. If the disease has entered the body, the incubation period can be lengthy, but if it eventually makes its way to the nervous system then it becomes impossible to treat and death within a short time is inevitable.
Rabies in America
Bats and Rabies are found everywhere in North America.
The United States has a much lower incidence of rabies than many other places, such as Africa and South America. This is because grounded animals like raccoons and dogs--due to vaccination and control--are very unlikely to contract the disease here, whereas in other places these animals are the main causes of human infection. Bats are difficult to control and virtually impossible to vaccinate, so they're still somewhat out of our reach.
What to do if Bitten
Clean any cut for safety.
If you are bitten by an unfamiliar animal, be it a dog or a bat, it is important to see a doctor. Even before going to the hospital, washing the wound with soap and water can be highly effective as an initial treatment. The tests for infections are relatively simple, and more often than not the result is negative. Because rabies is a fatal disease, however, there is no reason to take a chance.
Tags: North America, Bats Rabies, Brown Bats, most common, nervous system