Health officials in Golden Valley confirmed a bat found inside a local residence tested positive for rabies. Inspectors discovered a colony of bats living in the home attic shortly after the initial finding. Minnesota Department of Health representatives are now working with the homeowners to address the infestation and identify any potential exposure risks to residents or pets.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals. The virus spreads primarily through bites or scratches from infected animals. Bats are a common carrier of the disease in the region. Because bat teeth are extremely small, individuals who have been near a bat might not realize they were bitten or scratched. Officials emphasize that any direct contact with a bat should be reported immediately to medical professionals or local animal control.
Technicians from specialized pest removal services are assessing the structure to determine how the animals gained access to the attic space. The state health department reminds homeowners that bat proofing involves sealing gaps and cracks that measure as small as a dime. This incident serves as a reminder to keep living spaces sealed and to avoid touching wildlife, even if the animal appears inactive or dead.
Public health protocols require that if a bat is discovered in a home, the animal should be safely captured for testing, if possible. Experts advise not to touch the animal with bare hands. Use heavy gloves or a container to move the bat and contact the local health department for instructions on submission for rabies testing. When in doubt, medical evaluation is the safest course of action for anyone who has been in a room where a bat was found, especially if someone was sleeping or if small children were present.