WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Health officials are warning Whatcom County residents to be mindful of diseases spread from bats in the area.

Whatcom County Health and Community Services announced on Wednesday, Sept. 4, that a dead bat found on the deck of a private residence has tested positive for rabies. This incident is the county’s first confirmed rabies case of the year.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) sent a separate alert on Wednesday warning residents that white-nose syndrome is continuing to spread among bats in the state. The fungus that causes it has been detected in 11 new counties this year, including Whatcom County.

It is important to note that while the disease does not affect humans, livestock or other wildlife, it’s often fatal for bats and humans can still spread it.

WDFW says that Washington state is home to 15 species of bats that play a key role in their native ecosystems.

Both agencies and are reminding people to never touch or handle a bat without protective gear.

If you need help capturing a bat, contact the Whatcom Humane Society’s Animal Control services unit by calling (360)733-2080.