OMAHA, Neb. -- Bats, coyotes, foxes, raccoons and skunks are among the animals that can transfer rabies to people by biting.

And bat encounters here are on the rise, said Nebraska Humane Society Vice President of Field Operations Mark Langan.

He said he has received dozens of bat-related calls in the last week.

Rabies is an infectious viral disease that affects humans in their nervous system, said Dr. Adi Pour, Douglas County Health Department director.

Most recent cases of the viral disease have come from bats, according to the DCHD.

If you come in contact with bat saliva, officials recommend washing the area immediately and then calling your doctor. Then call the DCHD or the Humane Society.

Rabies is almost always fatal if not treated promptly.