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Will County’s fifth positive rabid bat of 2019 has been identified.  It was collected from a private home off Hughes Street in Frankfort.  The homeowner reported that she was alerted to bat droppings and contacted animal control on August 8th when the animal was found in the master bathroom.  The bat tested positive for rabies at the state lab, and all four individuals in the home were recommended to begin rabies vaccinations since length of time of the bat’s presence and exposure to it were unclear.  Other Will County rabid bats of 2019 have been found in Braidwood, Homer Glen, Frankfort, and Steger.

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.