MALAD — A bat has tested positive for rabies in Oneida County, according to Southeastern Idaho Public Health (SIPH).

According to a news release, this is the sixth bat to test positive for rabies in Idaho and the first found in southeast Idaho this year. The release states that while the majority of bats do not have rabies, rabies is “virtually 100% fatal” to humans and other animals.

“It is extremely important for people to avoid all bats and other wild animals, particularly if they appear sick or are acting aggressively or abnormally,” said Jeff Doerr, SIPH Epidemiologist in the news release.

SIPH is advising residents to be aware and cautious of any contact with bats.

According to the release, bats are the only known natural reservoir for the rabies virus in Idaho and should always

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