Rabid Bat Found In Frankfort

FRANKFORT, IL — A dead bat found in Frankfort on July 2 has been confirmed as the second rabies positive bat for Will County this season. The Will County Health Department said the bat was found in a driveway off of Aberdeen Road in Frankfort.

The bat was collected by local Animal Control and sent to the state lab for testing where it was found to be positive for the rabies virus. Neither the residents or their two dogs were exposed to the bat, the department said. Both canines are up to date with their rabies vaccines and will follow up with their veterinarian should they show any outward signs of distress.

Last year, there were 19 confirmed rabid bats in Will County. The department said bats discovered in Will County need to be immediately reported to Will County Animal Control at 815-462-5633. The Will County Animal Control program maintains a 24-hour answering and emergency pick-up service for confined stray animals, injured animals and stray biters.

In addition to reporting any discovered bats immediately, Will County residents are reminded to remove any people and animals from the area where the bat is, and to close off the vicinity where the bat is located, if possible. You should also look over all residents and pets that were around the bat for any small puncture or bite marks. Residents are reminded to not touch a diseased bat, and to to have your pets currently vaccinated against rabies.