Berrien County health officials are reporting a sharp increase in possible rabies exposures involving bats.

The Herald-Palladium reports the county health department received 61 reports between January 1st and September 30th. That compares with 24 reports during all of last year.

Possible exposures include bites, scratches, direct contact with a bat, or finding one in a room with a sleeping person or child.

Health officials say rabies is almost always fatal after symptoms begin, but it can be prevented with prompt treatment. Anyone bitten or scratched by a bat should wash the area with soap and water and contact a health care provider right away.