Rabies is caused by a virus that is transmitted by bites or scratches contaminated with saliva of an infected animal. A rabid animal licking an open wound is considered a possible source of exposure. Inhalation of dried feces from an infected animal can also be a source of rabies exposure. Petting a rabid animal or skin contact with the blood, urine or feces of a rabid animal is not considered a rabies exposure and does not require treatment. But to be safe, if there is any chance that an animal may have rabies, keep away and do not handle it with bare hands.
Bats are especially prone to be carriers of rabies.
After any exposure with a bat, contact your physician. Only 0-5 people a year contract rabies in the entire United States, making rabies in humans a very rare condition. Rabies is not common in California due to an aggressive vaccination program in domesticated animals. Bites from skunks, bats, foxes, coyotes, bobcats, raccoons and unvaccinated cats are sources of rabies. In California, skunks are the most likely to have rabies.