The fifth case of rabies in Polk County in 2012 was confirmed Friday.

According to Polk County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Section, a man "encountered" a bat in his driveway on Pine Street in Mulberry on Tuesday.

Animal Control responded and took the bat to be tested. Testing confirmed positive for rabies Friday.

The man was advised to seek medical treatment.

4 previous cases of rabies in Polk County in 2012

The first case of rabies was reported Jan. 12, when a dog attacked and killed a raccoon in the 4800 block of Elam Road in Lakeland.

The second case was reported March 9, when the owners of a Labrador retriever found their dog barking at a bat in their yard on Lake Tennessee Drive in Auburndale.
 
The third case was reported March 17, when three stray dogs attacked and killed a raccoon near Flood Court in Bartow

The fourth case was reported April 29, when a resident of Broken Arrow Trail, in Lakeland, found his dogs with a dead raccoon.

Information for dealing with possible rabies cases
 
Officials reminded residents that bats and raccoons are among the mammals considered to be "high risk species." Resident are advised not to approach any animal which is acting in an unusual or suspicious manner.

If you think you or your pet has had an “exposure,” contact the PCSO Animal Control Section at 863-499-2600.

For more information on rabies in Polk County: PolkSheriff.org