Bat Found In Chicago Ridge Tests Positive for Rabies

CHICAGO — A bat found in Chicago Ridge on Aug. 8 has tested positive for rabies. The bat was found outside in the 10900 block of McVicker Avenue, Cook County officials said.

The bat was submitted to the Illinois Department of Public Health lab for an exam. The test results were positive for rabies.

This is the third rabid bat to be found in Cook County this summer. Rabid bats were found June 24 in Elk Lawn Village, and May 12 in the 2900 block of West Gregory in Chicago’s Albany Park neighborhood.

Residents are advised to keep their dogs, cats and ferrets on a leash when outside. If your pet does not have a current rabies vaccination, have your pet inoculated for rabies.

Do not handle bats, skunks, raccoons or other wild animals. Should such animals found dead or appear to be sick, call Cook County Animal and Rabies Control at 708-974-6140.