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Interior Health has reminded residents to stay away from bats.
The agency said between 4–8 per cent of bats that come into contact with people in British Columbia have rabies.
Rabies is a viral disease that is almost always fatal without treatment.
Interior Health said 132 people were treated for potential exposure to the virus in 2021.
Bats are the only animals in BC known to carry rabies, according to WildSafeBC.
“It is very important that people avoid handling bats with their bare hands to prevent bites or scratches,” the agency said.
“This is particularly important for children, who tend to find bats on the ground and play with them. Anyone who has been bitten or scratched by a bat should seek medical attention immediately.”
Treatment involves a two-week course of vaccinations.
Interior Health provided the following list of tips related to bats:
Precautions to protect yourself from contact with bats
If you suspect you have been bitten or scratched by a bat
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