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Bat tests positive for first rabies case of the year in Orange Co. CBS North CarolinaPublished: May 5, 2016, 11:55 am Updated: May 5, 2016, 11:57 am Rapid bat. (AP File Photo) HILLSBOROUGH, N.C. (WNCN) – A dead bat, discovered next to a cat Wednesday in Hillsborough, has tested positive for rabies. It’s the first case of rabies this year in Orange County, reports the North Carolina State Laboratory of Public Health. Orange County recorded a total of 10 positive cases last year and 23 the year before. The cat involved in this case was currently vaccinated against rabies and has received a booster shot pursuant to North Carolina’s rabies laws. An unvaccinated animal must either be destroyed or quarantined for a period up to four months. A Communicable Disease Nurse from the Orange County Health Departme nt is evaluating whether humans are at risk of rabies exposure. Of concern is the possibility of secondary exposure from the owners having contact with the cat after the incident. “Prevention is the best measure for effective rabies control for pets and people alike,” said Bob Marotto, director of Animal Services. “Quarantines are done at the cost of the owner and can be expensive, so ensuring cats, dogs, and ferrets have had their rabies vaccinations and can receive a booster instead is always preferable f or the pets and people involved.” Of the few cases of rabies in humans in the United States in recent years, most have been traced to bats. A low-cost rabies vaccine clinic is schedule for Thursday, May 12 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Eno river Farmer’s Market, located at 144 E. Margaret Lane in Hillsborough. It is a law in North Carolina that dogs, cats and ferrets older than four months must have a current and valid rabies vaccination at all times. The cost for rabies vaccinations is $10. For more information, please call Orange County Animal Services at (919) 942-7387.