Two Rabid Bats Found In Lincoln-Way Area: Health Department

FRANKFORT, IL — Two bats found in the Lincoln-Way area have been identified as positive for rabies, marking the fourth and fifth rabid bats found in Will County this year.

According to the Will County Health Department, one bat was found in St. Peter's Church, 12 Sauk Trail, in Frankfort. The pastor of the church was notified of a bat hanging from the ceiling of the sanctuary on Aug. 30. The bat was retrieved by Will County Animal Control and no one was exposed to the bat.

The second bat was located in the 0-100 block of Wildwood Drive in New Lenox. The health department said the homeowners believe the bat entered the house while they were letting the dogs out in the morning. The homeowners closed the door after the bat flew into the master bathroom and contacted Will County Animal Control.

Two dogs were in the home at the time, and the homeowners have said that they were current on rabies vaccinations. An 8-month- old baby was also asleep in her room with the door closed at the time, the health department said.

The first three rabid bats in Will County were found in Joliet and Wilmington, according to the health department.

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 confirmed stray animals, injured animals, and stray biters, the health department said.

In addition to being asked to report any discovered bats immediately, residents are also 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. Check all residents and pets that were around the bat for any small puncture or bite marks.

Residents are reminded to not touch a deceased bat, and to remember to have your pets currently vaccinated against rabies.