Campus & Community

Seasonal bat activity on campus

Wednesday, September 14, 2011, By News Staff

During the late summer and early fall months, there is a seasonal increase in bat activity in and around Central New York, including the Syracuse University campus. Because a small percentage of bats may carry the rabies virus, it is important to avoid any physical contact with a bat.

If you suspect any contact with a bat while on University grounds or if there is a bat in your campus work area or room, call Public Safety at 711 from a campus phone, or 443-2224, and also report it to area supervisory personnel. Trained University personnel will take appropriate action to capture or relocate the bat.

Individuals who have had any contact with a bat or potential unknowing contact (e.g., bat found in the room with a sleeping person or child, etc.) should contact Health Services (443-9005) as soon as possible following any known or potential contact, for an exposure assessment. Syracuse University Health Services is located at 111 Waverly Ave.

The following web page link provides additional information and the University’s reporting procedure.
http://eho.syr.edu/EHO/html/BatExposure.html.

Questions? Contact the Environmental Health Office at 443-4132.