— Orange County officials on Thursday reported the seventh confirmed rabies case of the year after a bat tested positive for the virus.

Bob Marotto, director of Orange County Animal Services, said a Carrboro girl returned home from school Wednesday when the family cat discovered the bat in the backyard. The cat bit then dropped the bat, and the family called animal control.

The cat had a current rabies vaccination and received a booster shot, which is required by state law when there is exposure to the rabies virus.

Marotto urged residents to ensure their cats, dogs and ferrets are vaccinated. He warned residents to be wary of wild animals and report any animal behaving strangely.

The county is hosting a low-cost rabies vaccination clinic June 15. Visit the Animal Services website for more information.