Several southern Utahns exposed to bats with rabies

Several people in southern Utah have recently been exposed to bats with rabies, according to health officials. | Adobe Stock

Health officials say people have received vaccinations

ST. GEORGE — Several people in southern Utah have recently been exposed to bats with rabies, according to health officials.

The people who were exposed received preventive vaccinations, the Southwest Utah Public Health Department said in a statement Tuesday.

“Rabies vaccine is very effective when given soon enough,” Dr. David Blodgett, department director and health officer, said in the statement.

“Every year we have people in our district who have to get a series of shots after actual or suspected exposure to rabid animals, mostly bats. If the disease is left untreated and starts to show symptoms, it is nearly always fatal.”

The health department offered suggestions for avoiding exposure to rabies, including staying away from wild animals and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten by an animal.

Health workers also recommended seeking immediate medical attention after any contact with an animal that might have rabies, even if you don’t know if you were actually bitten. For example, if one wakes up to see a bat flying around their room, they should see a doctor.

Pet owners should also vaccinate their animals against rabies, officials said.

Last November, a man from Moroni died from rabies after being exposed to an infected bat, health officials said. He was the first Utahn to die of the disease since 1944.

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