Texas Kindergarteners Possibly Exposed To Rabies After Playing With Rabid Bat

Kindergarten students from Texas were possibly exposed to rabies after reportedly playing with a rabid bat. Authorities are now working to identify the children who came in contact with the creature.

Manor Police Department (PD) is working with Manor Independent School District (Manor ISD) to identify the Lagos Elementary School students who may have been in contact with a bat, Manor PD said in a statement this week.

The bat, Manor PD explained, tested positive for rabies and video footage obtained by Manor ISD reportedly showed 15 students "near or playing with" the bat.

In a separate statement, the Manor Independent School District (Manor ISD) noted that the procedures to remove the bat were "immediately followed" and that the interior and exterior of the facility will be inspected.

"School officials will take the appropriate actions and notify you if any bats or other pests are found," Manor ISD said in the statement, also noting that it is "working closely" with Manor PD.

Families were reportedly notified of the possible exposure and referred to a physician. But anyone who suspects possible exposure is being advised to contact a healthcare provider.

"If you question your kindergarten students' exposure, contact MISD, Manor Animal Control (512-230-8348), or a healthcare provider," Manor PD said in the statement. "Exposure with infection, if left untreated can be fatal. If detected early, the virus is highly treatable."

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that can be spread through the scratch or bite of an infected animal, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said. In other parts of the world, rabies deaths in people are still caused by dog bites. But in the U.S., rabies is mainly found in wild animals such as foxes, bats, and raccoons, the agency explained.

Although considered a fatal disease, it is also preventable by vaccinating pets and staying away from wildlife. Once contact with a potentially rabid animal has occurred, it's important to get post-exposure prophylaxis from a health care provider before symptoms begin.

"If you've been in contact with any wildlife or unfamiliar animals, particularly if you've been bitten or scratched, you should talk with a healthcare or public health professional to determine your risk for rabies or other illnesses," the CDC said. "It's important to know that, unlike most other animals that carry rabies, many types of bats have very small teeth which may leave marks that disappear quickly. If you are unsure, seek medical advice to be safe."