EAST LYME—On July 10, a bat found on Boston Post Rd. in East Lyme was tested and found to be positive for rabies on July 10.

A press release issued by Ledge Light Health District the same day urges people 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. 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, nose, mouth, etc.)  

If you have any questions or concerns, contact Ledge Light Health District at 860-448-4882 or the Waterford/East Lyme Animal Control at 860-442-9451.