Council issues public warning after reports of rabid bats in Eagle Creek area

Councilwoman Scott used her items-from-council time to warn residents that rabid bats have been observed in and near the Eagle Creek subdivision and to encourage residents to avoid contact with wildlife.

Scott said she had become aware of at least two instances in which people had been in contact with bats that later tested positive for rabies, and she urged residents: "If you see an animal on the ground, don't go investigate it. Contact animal control, but just be aware not to have contact yourself." She described Eagle Creek as a residential subdivision on the city’s east side and asked residents in adjacent neighborhoods to be vigilant.

A Victoria County public-health/zoonosis official who identified himself to council also addressed the chamber, noting that Texas is home to many bat species and that rabies is a known risk. He said the county had recently identified positive rabies cases among bats and skunks and reiterated the public-health rule: "By state law, your cats and dogs and parrots 4 months of age or older have to be vaccinated for rabies." He also noted typical warning signs (odd daytime behavior, staggering) and said that any bat seen on the ground should not be handled.

What residents should do: The public-health representative told council members to contact animal control or public health if they encounter suspicious wildlife. If a person or pet potentially has contact with a bat, medical and veterinary follow-up—such as rabies prophylaxis for people or post-exposure protocols for animals—may be required.

Ending: Council asked the public to report unusual wildlife behavior and to avoid direct contact. City and county public-health officials said they are available to provide more information and guidance to residents.