Rabid Bat Found in Smith County

TYLER — Another case of rabies turns up in Smith County. The Texas Department of State Health Services advised the Northeast Texas Public Health District that a bat submitted for analysis tested positive for rabies. The bat was found near the 15000 Block of County Road 26 outside Tyler. This is the second laboratory confirmed case of rabies in Smith County for 2012.

According to health district authorities, “It is critical for people not to handle bats, skunks, raccoons, or other wild animals. It is important for children to tell their parents of any contact with wild animals or any sick animals. Anyone who knows of a person being bitten by an animal must report the bite incident to the Smith County Rabies Control Authority for proper investigation.

“Smith County Rabies Control Authority advises all citizens to confirm that their dogs and cats are currently vaccinated for rabies. City of Tyler Ordinance and Smith County Ordinance require annual rabies vaccinations for all dogs and cats. It is a Class C misdemeanor if you fail to vaccinate your dog or cat by four (4) months of age. Preventive immunization for rabies is the only effective defense against this always fatal disease. Anyone with questions on rabies control may contact City of Tyler Animal Control at 903-535-0045.”