[UPDATED Aug. 21]
Austin Animal Services is currently searching for a boy approximately six-years-old that may have been exposed to the rabies virus after touching an infected bat.
The incident occurred on Aug. 18 around 9 p.m. under the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge at Lady Bird Lake. The boy was reported to be wearing a green shirt and an observer noted the boy picked up the bat, according to a news release.
It may take several weeks or longer for people to show symptoms after being infected with rabies. The early signs of rabies can be fever or headache.Once someone with a rabies infection starts having these symptoms, that person usually does not survive. It is critical to talk to your doctor or health care provider right away if any animal bites you, especially a wild animal, according to a news release.
