A case of rabies was detected in a bat in the commune of Sainte-Suzanne-et-Chammes in Mayenne, the prefecture reported on Friday, August 2. This is the first case recorded in the department.
This is a first in Mayenne. A resident of Sainte-Suzanne-et-Chammes discovered a bat infected with rabies, France Bleu Mayenne reported on Friday, August 2.
The case of rabies was confirmed by a specialized laboratory and the person who found the sick animal was referred to a rabies center as a preventive measure, the prefecture informed. The virus responsible for rabies is present in the saliva of infected animals and is transmitted by bites or scratches.
What to do in case of contamination?
In the event of contact with a bat (licking, biting, scratching), the prefecture recommends washing the wound carefully with soap, rinsing thoroughly, then drying before applying an antiseptic.
The prefecture, however, reminds us that bats are among the protected species and that “it is important not to touch them, handle them or try to catch them”.
In 2022, Pasteur Institute identified 461 patients who received post-exposure prophylaxis, i.e. preventive treatment, after contact with a bat, including 93 in Guyana and 17 abroad.
Treatment, if necessary, may combine vaccine and immunoglobulins, and will require several injections. However, cases of rabies transmission to humans by a bat are very rare. In August 2019, a case of rabies caused the death of a patient in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. It was the first indigenous case in mainland France since 1924.
If you come across an injured or dead bat, contact the French Biodiversity Office in Mayenne on 02.43.02.97.70 or by email at the following address: sd53@ofb.gouv.fr.
