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Bats found inside Puyallup elementary school; health officials recommend treatment
KOMO • • health
Key Points:
- The Puyallup School District is addressing a bat infestation at Edgerton Elementary School, where at least eight bats have been found in various parts of the building since mid-September.
- The local health department has recommended post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) treatment for one staff member and one student who may have come into contact with the bats.
- Despite ongoing efforts, officials have not yet determined how the bats are entering the school or where they are roosting, though three bats were found in the mechanical room.
- Pest control is scheduled to work on sealing entry points this weekend, and the school is continuing to monitor the situation closely.
- Public health officials advise immediate washing and medical consultation if anyone comes into contact with a bat; however, rabies cases in the area remain rare, with the last positive bat test in Pierce County occurring in 2017.
