Woodstock Family Finds Rabid Bat In Home

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL — After a rabid bat got into a home in McHenry County in recent weeks, McHenry County health officials are providing tips for anyone who may find themselves in a similar situation.

The incident occurred at a home in Woodstock on May 24. Local public health officials say the Woodstock household came in contact with the bat, which they found in the home.

The household members exposed to the bat were referred to a local hospital emergency room to begin post exposure prophylaxis treatment, which is a four-series treatment that includes immunoglobulins and vaccine and must be administered as soon as possible after the exposure to prevent serious illness, according to health officials.

Public health officials said they could not share information on how the household members were "exposed" to the bat or if they were bitten, and also could not share information on their conditions.

A dog in the home was also exposed to the bat and is being observed for symptoms, according to a news release from the McHenry County Department of Health.

Rabies can be fatal in humans if left untreated, health official said.

Following the incident, public health officials are urging residents to take the following steps if they find a bat in their house:

• Contain the bat in a room by closing the door or placing a blanket on it and immediately call the MCDH Animal Control at 815-459-6222. For reliable rabies testing to be done, it is important the animal be in good condition, with its head still intact, and either alive or recently deceased.
• Make sure doors, windows, and vents have screens and are securely framed, chimneys are capped and gaps around utility lines are plugged.
• McHenry County residents who find a bat in their home and come into contact with it or were in the same room as the animal while sleeping should contact the MCDH Animal Control and their physician. Many types of bats have small teeth which may leave marks that disappear quickly. If you find a bat in your home and are unsure if it scratched or bit you, seek medical advice to be safe.
• Do not touch, feed or unintentionally attract wild animals with open garbage cans or litter. Residents should also not "adopt" wild animals or bring them into your home or try to nurse sick, wild animals to health. Instead, call MCDH Animal Control for assistance

In addition, health officials are reminding residents to make sure pets, including domestic cats and dogs, receive a rabies vaccine. If a cat or dog comes in contact with a potentially rabid animal, the owner should contact their local veterinarian who will work with McHenry County Animal Control.

More information about preventing exposure to rabid wildlife can be found at MCDH.info or by visiting the Illinois Department of Public Health.