TYLER, Texas — A bat found in Tyler has tested positive for rabies.
Tyler Animal Services says on Wednesday, they were alerted by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) a bat found near the 2200 block of Bateman Ave. was submitted for analysis and tested positive for rabies.
Officials say the people and animals who had possible exposure have been identified and "addressed."
"It is critical for people not to handle bats, skunks, raccoons or other wild animals," Tyler Animal Services said. "It is important for children to tell their parents of any contact with wild animals or any sick animals. If a person is bitten by an animal, the bite incident must be reported to the Local Rabies Control Authority, Tyler Animal Services Director Shawn Markmann, for proper investigation."
Tyler Animal Services says all pet owners to confirm their dogs and cats are current on their rabies vaccinations.
"City of Tyler Ordinance and Smith County Ordinance requires regular rabies shots for all dogs and cats," Tyler Animal Services said. "It is a Class C misdemeanor if someone fails to vaccinate their pet(s) by four months of age."