FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) - The health department has confirmed rabies exposure of a Fresno County resident in Merced County after the resident was, allegedly, bitten by a bat. The Fresno County Department of Public Health (FCDPH) along with the Merced County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) say a Fresno County resident was confirmed to have had rabies exposure. Officials suspect this happened after being bitten by a bat in Merced County. The FCDPH says they are working closely with the hospital and healthcare workers caring for the person, while the MCDPH is working to notify other people who may have been exposed as well as preparing medical providers in the community on response measures. Rabies is a very serious disease that is almost always fatal if not treated before symptoms appear, according to officials. The disease can be transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, usually via bites or scratches. Wild animals like bats are a common source of rabies exposure. If a bat, dead or alive, is found, the FCDPH urges residents to take the following precautions: Do not touch the bat if possible. Bites or scratches from bats often go undetected, so it is recommended to report any direct contact with a healthcare provider. Those who had direct contact with a bat or suspected potential exposure are encouraged to: Wash any bite or scratch wounds with soap and water. Contact a healthcare provider immediately for evaluation and treatment. Report the incident to the local health department for further guidance. For more information about rabies, click here.