Officials say two cases of rabies were confirmed in wild animals in Fairfield this past week.

One of the animals was found on Springer Road and the other was found on Woodside Circle.

The first case was confirmed after a bat was found dead in a house and tested positive.

A raccoon tested positive for the virus after getting into a fight with a dog, confirming the second case. Officials say that the dog had been vaccinated and survived.

Police say although animals may test positive for the virus at any time of the year, they usually see an uptick when it starts getting cold out. That's when people find wild animals in their houses, garages and yards that are trying to seek warm shelter.

Animal Control Officer Vinnie Pennatto says it isn't always easy to tell if an animal has rabies, so they take every case very seriously. Pennatto adds that it's especially unusual to have two different species of animals test positive for the virus in such a short time period.

Experts say there is no cure for the disease, which is almost always fatal. As a precaution, they say people should watch out for any animals that are behaving strangely.

Authorities say people should make sure that their pets are vaccinated. Anyone who spots animals behaving oddly are urged to call authorities.