Rabid bat spotted near Fremont sidewalk prompts rabies precautions

A bat found near a sidewalk in the Palo Verde Common area of South Fremont tested positive for rabies, triggering a local investigation led by Alameda County Vector Control and leafleting of the nearby area; there are currently no known human or animal exposures. Residents are advised to vaccinate pets, keep dogs confined, avoid handling wild animals, report bites, and bat-proof homes by sealing openings larger than a quarter inch. If a bat is touched or bitten, contact the Alameda County Public Health Acute Communicable Disease program and seek medical care immediately, as rabies is fatal but preventable with timely post-exposure treatment.