
Virginia Doctor Finds Bat in Mouth, Urges Quick Rabies Testing and Reporting
A Richmond gastroenterologist woke to a bat in her mouth, trapped it for rabies testing, and consulted medical professionals about whether she needed a rabies vaccine. ER doctors advised treating any bat exposure as a potential rabies risk and to contact local health authorities for guidance, noting testing can take about 48 hours. The bat later tested negative, but experts stress prompt action after exposure due to rabies' serious, often fatal risk. Bats are common worldwide, with many species in the U.S.






