A second bat in Sullivan County has tested positive for rabies, county health officials said Wednesday.
The bat was found in the Grahamsville area in the Town of Neversink.
Health officials announced on Friday that a bat in Livingston Manor had tested positive for the disease.
Officials say bat encounters can be difficult to determine because they have very small teeth and a bite or scratch may not be readily apparent. Anyone who may have had direct contact with a bat, wakes up to find one in their room or discovers one should contact the Sullivan County Department of Public Health for guidance.
Rabies is common in wildlife. Those infected may act aggressively or unusually. However, experts say that an animal doesn't need to appear sick to have rabies.
People are advised not to touch bats and avoid wildlife. Pet owners should also vaccinate their pets against the disease.