DELHI - A bat collected in the town of Delhi has tested positive for rabies, prompting preventive medical treatment for one person who was exposed, Delaware County Public Health Services announced.
The bat is the third animal in Delaware County to test positive for rabies in 2026. No pets or livestock were exposed, according to the health department.
Rabies is a viral disease that is almost always fatal once symptoms develop, but infection can be prevented if treatment begins promptly after an exposure.
Health officials said bats can carry rabies in their saliva and transmit the virus through bites. While most bats are healthy and play an important role by consuming insects, residents are urged to avoid direct contact because infected bats do not always display obvious signs of illness.
Rabid bats may be active during daylight hours, appear unable to fly, become paralyzed or bite people or animals, although officials cautioned that not all infected bats behave abnormally.
Public Health officials recommend that anyone who believes they or a pet may have come into contact with a bat immediately wash the affected area with soap and water, seek medical attention and contact the health department for an exposure assessment.
Officials advise capturing a bat only if direct contact with a person or animal has occurred, or if a bat is found in a room with a sleeping person, an unattended child, an intoxicated individual or someone who is mentally impaired. When safe to do so, the bat should be confined using thick gloves, a container and a piece of cardboard so it can be tested.
The department also urged pet owners to keep dogs, cats, ferrets and livestock current on rabies vaccinations. Vaccinated pets exposed to rabies may require only a booster shot if treated promptly, while unvaccinated animals may face a six-month quarantine or euthanasia, depending on state guidelines.
Delaware County Public Health Services will continue offering free rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats and ferrets this fall. Remaining clinics are scheduled for:
• Aug. 12: Delhi Fire Hall, 5-7 p.m.
• Sept. 9: Stamford Fire Hall, 5-7 p.m.
• Oct. 5: Deposit DPW Garage, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Health officials encourage residents to preregister for the clinics and to report suspected rabid animals to Delaware County Public Health Services at 607-832-5200.
