Dead Bat Found Near Lynwood Trail Tests Positive For Rabies

CEDAR PARK, TX — A dead bat found near the Lynwood Trail area in Cedar Park has tested positive for rabies, officials said Tuesday.

The dead bat was impounded by Cedar Park Animal Control and sent to the Texas Department of State Health Services after it was found by Lynwood Trail and Brushy Creek Road.

Texas DSHS tested the bat and discovered it was positive for rabies on June 5, officials said.

Rabies is a deadly virus spread to people from the saliva of infected animals. It can cause fever, vomiting, muscle weakness, drooling and convulsions, authorities said.

City officials said at this time, there is no known direct human or animal contact with the bat and it is unclear how long the bat was in the area when it was located.

"We want to take this time to remind you not to touch stray or unknown animals/wildlife. Please make sure your pet’s rabies vaccines are up to date to protect you and your family," officials said Tuesday.

Authorities said it is extremely important that if individual or their pets have come into contact with an infected animal, whether it is dead or alive, that they contact Animal Control immediately.

To contact authorities, call the Cedar Park Animal Control Unit at 512-260-4622 or the Texas Department of State Health Services Zoonosis Control Program at 254-778-6744.