Protecting Health BLBLB BLBLBLK:j
Disease Surveillance
Our Disease Surveillance program provides education, guidance, and response support related to concerns that may pose public health issues in our communities.
This includes information on bat safety, rabies awareness, dead bird reporting, and nuisance pest concerns that may require follow-up by our Disease Surveillance staff. Our goal is to provide residents with clear, practical information to help reduce risk, promote safe interactions with wildlife, and support community health.
Bats play an important role in the environment by helping control insect populations, but they should never be handled directly. While most bats are not infected with rabies, bats are one of the primary wildlife species associated with rabies exposure in the United States.
Bat Safety & Education
Handling a bat
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Never touch a bat with bare hands
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Keep bats out of living spaces by sealing small openings around homes
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Ensure window screens and chimney covers are secure
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Teach children not to handle bats or other wildlife
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If a bat is found indoors, isolate the area if possible and contact local authorities or animal control for guidance
A bat exposure may include:
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A bite or scratch
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Direct skin contact with a bat
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Waking up in a room with a bat present
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Finding a bat near a young child, sleeping person, or someone unable to communicate possible contact
If exposure is suspected, contact a healthcare provider immediately for guidance regarding rabies prevention. If possible, contact a local veterinarian or animal control agency for assistance with safely capturing the bat for rabies testing.
To preserve testing capabilities, avoid damaging the bat's head during capture. Never handle a bat with bare hands.
Dead Bird Reporting
Dead birds can occasionally help identify disease activity within an area, including illnesses that may affect wildlife or public health.
Reporting Guidance
When reporting a dead bird, please provide:
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Location of the bird
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Date observed
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Type of bird, if known
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Condition of the bird
Residents should avoid handling dead birds whenever possible.
If disposal is necessary:
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Wear gloves or use a shovel
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Avoid direct contact with the bird
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Double-bag the bird before disposal
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Wash hands thoroughly afterward
Not all dead birds require testing or collection. Disease Surveillance staff will provide additional guidance when needed.
Safe Diposal
Nuisance & Concerns
Our Disease Surveillance staff provide education and resources for nuisance pest concerns which could impact public health.
Please include as much information as possible when submitting a complaint, including location, dates, photographs if available, and details about the concern. This helps staff respond more efficiently and determine whether follow-up is needed.