A third bat has tested positive for rabies in Will County for the year 2019. The bat was collected on July 19th, in the 13000 block of Meath Drive in Homer Glen. Positive status was confirmed on July 23rd, and no humans or pets were exposed.
In 2018 there were a total of 19 confirmed rabid bats in Will County, with the significant number credited in part to more awareness and vigilance on the part of Will County residents.
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 confined stray animals, injured animals, and stray biters.
In addition to reporting any discovered bats immediately, Will County residents are 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, and look over all present 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 please also remember to have your pets currently vaccinated against rabies.
For more information bats and rabies, please go to this Centers for Disease Control and Prevention site.