News, Sarasota families contacted after rabid bat handled by children. (parent, girls)

[JD59]

SARASOTA, FL. - The Sarasota County Health Department received laboratory confirmation today that a bat in the recent possession of a school-age child tested positive for rabies.

On Monday, April 12, the student carried the bat around Gocio Elementary School, allowing peers to touch it, and brought it in the bus to an after-school-care program at the Boys and Girls Club on Fruitville Road.

Sarasota families contacted after rabid bat handled by children - WWSB ABC 7 Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, North Port, Siesta Key Breaking News, Weather, Sports and Traffic on the Suncoast |

[phonelady61]

okay someone certainly droped the ball on this one . where were the adults at this school ? I certainly would be upset if my child handled something that was a known rabid animal . my goodness someone needs to have a talk with the adults in this school .

[10,000Lakes]

This is pretty scary. As a parent I would be scared if they came in contact with the bat, even if they touched it. Only because if you don't get the treatments it's fatal and you usually have to start geting them with in 10 days. But it's not like it's one little shot and your done. The rabies medication is a series. Crazy story though!!