Bat Tests Positive For Rabies In Lyme

LYME, CT — A bat has tested positive for rabies in Lyme, according to the Ledge Light Health District.

A bat from the area of Hamburg Road in Lyme was tested and found to be positive for rabies on Friday. The public is asked to refrain from feeding or approaching any wild or stray animals.

"Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that can infect all warm-blooded animals, including people," health officials said. "It is spread mostly by wild animals, but stray cats and dogs may also become infected and spread the virus. The rabies virus lives in the saliva and brain tissue of infected animals. Rabies can be spread by scratches from infected animals or when infected saliva comes into contact with open wounds, breaks in the skin or mucous membranes (eyes, noses, mouth, etc.)