McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) confirms its first rabid bat of the year, found on April 16 in a garden in McHenry. No exposure was reported. There have been no reports of rabid bats in the Village of Algonquin. It is strongly recommended that residents not release a bat but contain it in a room, under a bucket or blanket (using gloves as a barrier). In order to test bats for rabies, it is important they be in good condition - either alive or recently deceased. Specimens that are in good condition and test negative for rabies eliminates the need for rabies treatment. McHenry County Animal Control should be contacted immediately (815-459-6222).
McHenry County led the State in 2008 with rabid bats (23); bats reported statewide totaled 103. In 2007, Illinois recorded its highest number of rabid bats (113), with McHenry County reporting 13. In 2009, Cook County and Lake County have already reported rabid bats. A rabies fact sheet is available at the Illinois Dept of Public Health www.idph.state.il.us/public/hb/hbrabies.htm.
The best way to avoid rabies is to avoid exposure. Residents are encouraged to take a "hands off" approach to wild animals to reduce their risk of exposure. Parents also need to educate their children of the dangers. Keeping dogs and cats up to date on their vaccinations is a good way to protect them from rabies. A bat that is active by day, found in a place where bats are not usually seen (such as in your home, in a swimming pool or on the lawn) or is unable to fly, is more likely than others to be rabid. Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system and can only be confirmed in a laboratory.
Questions about exposure should be directed to MCDH's Communicable Disease Program at 815-334-4500.
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