The first reported case of rabies in a bat in Huron Perth was confirmed by Huron Perth Public Health yesterday morning (June 11).
A bat found in Stratford has tested positive for the rabies virus – and a person who was bitten by the infected bat is currently undergoing rabies post-exposure treatment.
Rabies is fatal to humans if left untreated – while only one to three per cent of Ontario’s bat population is infected with the virus, caution is vital.
HPPH emphasizes the importance of avoiding contact with bats and urges residents and visitors to report any potential exposure to the health unit promptly.
Patrick Landry, Public Health Inspector, stresses the urgency of seeking medical attention in the event of a bat-related incident: “If you are bitten or scratched by a bat, or if infectious material from a bat comes into contact with your eyes, nose, or a wound, it is crucial to thoroughly cleanse the affected area and seek immediate medical care.”
In cases where an exposure to a bat has occurred, HPPH arranges for the animal to be tested for rabies, emphasizing the significance of refraining from handling bats directly. Residents are advised to confine bats to a single room if found indoors and to contact HPPH.
To safeguard against rabies transmission, HPPH provides the following recommendations:
- Ensure pets are vaccinated for rabies, as mandated by Ontario law.
- Exercise caution around wild, stray, or unfamiliar animals.
- Secure homes against bat intrusion by sealing entry points and keeping doors closed.
- Refrain from trapping or keeping wild animals as pets.
As bats typically remain active until cooler weather sets in, HPPH urges the public to remain informed and proactive in protecting themselves and their communities against this potentially deadly disease.
Written by: B. Shakyaver