Warning issued by vet after rabid bat found in Duck Lake

The Government of Saskatchewan runs a rabies response program where private vets collect samples from suspect animals and submit these for rabies testing under direction from the program’s Rabies Risk Assessment Veterinarian (RRAV).

Test results are reported back to the submitting veterinarian and RRAV will also coordinate any response and follow-up activities necessary in the event of a positive rabies test result, the government website says.

Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system of both animals and humans.

Rabies is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal. While bites are usually the most common form of exposure, rabies can also be transmitted when infected saliva comes into contact with an open wound or scratch, or with the mouth, nose or eyes.