Dog Found Playing With Rabid Bat in McHenry Home: Health Officals

WOODSTOCK IL — A bat that tested positive for rabies was recently found at a home in McHenry, health officials said Thursday. No human exposure was reported but a dog was found playing with the bat and that "is being taken into consideration," according to a news release from the McHenry County Health Department.

Following the recent incident, health officials are urging resident to keep pets, even those that stay indoors, up to date with vaccinations. This will prevent the animals from contracting rabies and also provides "a barrier of protection for people if a rabid animal bites a pet," according to the news release.

“Never touch a bat with bare hands. Using a shovel or plastic bag ensures no direct contact. If a bat is found inside, contain it in a room by closing the door. If you find a bat outside and think there has been exposure to a person or pet or if the bat is injured, place an upside down bucket over the bat if possible.” said Maryellen Howell, Manager of McHenry County Department of Health’s Veterinary Public Health Division.

Those that come in contact with a rabid bat should contact animal control immediately at 815-459-6222. To test bats for rabies, it is important the bat be in good condition, meaning that its head is intact, and either alive or recently deceased.

Rabies is a fatal disease caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system and can only be confirmed by laboratory testing, according to the news release.

The best way to avoid rabies is to avoid exposure. People should take a “hands off” approach to all wild animals to reduce their risk of exposure. Children should also be educated to avoid handling wild animals, according to a news release.

Bats are a protected species and part of the natural habitat, health officials said.

Anyone with questions can contact the MCDH’s Communicable Disease Program at 815-334- 4500. To learn more about rabies prevention, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at http://www.cdc.gov/rabies/.