Third Rabid Bat Found In Oak Forest: Cook County

OAK FOREST, IL — Another bat found in Oak Forest has tested positive for rabies, Cook County officials said Friday.

The bat was found Oct. 9 near the 6200 block of El Morro Lane, and was determined to be rabid by the Illinois State Public Health Laboratory, officials said.

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It's the third bat recently found in Oak Forest that tested positive for rabies. A bat found Aug. 28 near the 15500 block of Rob Roy Drive also was determined to be rabid, Cook County officials said. Another was found Sept. 15 near the 15300 block of Kilpatrick.

Residents are reminded to keep their dogs, cats and ferrets leashed when outside their homes. If the pet is not vaccinated against rabies, owners should have them inoculated immediately.

If you were exposed to or bitten by a bat, contact your doctor.

Residents are cautioned not to handle bats, skunks or other wild animals. If any bats or skunks are found on or near your property or roadway, call Cook County Animal and Rabies Control at 708-974-6140.