Blog
Tips from CDC to Prevent Rabies from Bats
- By: Maureen Carland
- On: 08/04/2026 07:13:34
- In: Infection Control
While bats are ecologically important, they can carry rabies—a nearly always-fatal disease without prompt treatment, though human cases remain rare (Maine hasn't seen one since 1937). Rabies spreads primarily through bites or scratches from infected mammals, not through blood, urine, or other bodily fluids, and since infected animals can't always be identified by sight, the Maine CDC urges people to avoid handling wildlife altogether.
Staff Contact: mcarland[at]mehca.org