The public is cautioned not to handle bats, who are among the primary reservoirs for rabies in Alabama. Estimates vary but generally it is estimated that only a small percentage of the bat population is positive for rabies. Oftentimes, infected bats will not be able to fly or will be out during the day but bats can also be infected without showing signs. Therefore, laboratory testing is the only definitive method for identifying rabies-positive bats which may have exposed humans. In 2023, the Alabama Department of Public Health reported 13 laboratory-confirmed rabies-positive bats. State public health veterinarian Dr. Dee W....

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