Will County’s sixth confirmed rabid bat of 2020 has been found in Shorewood. The bat was in the attic of a home in the 1100 block of Cambridge Lane, and was discovered when the access stairs to the attic were pulled down. The homeowner stated there was no exposure to the bat by children or animals in the home. Scratching had been noticed in the attic and the residents investigated. The family trapped the bat by closing the bathroom door.
The Health Department reminds you that although it has been a slow year for rabid bats far, extreme caution must still be practiced. As recently as 2018, there were 19 confirmed rabid bats in Will County, with that high number credited in part to more awareness and vigilance on the part of Will County residents. WCHD asks that this awareness continue for benefit of all 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 confirmed stray animals, injured animals, and stray biters.
In addition to being asked to report any discovered bats immediately, Will County residents are also 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. Also, please look check all 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 on bats and rabies, please to go this Centers for Disease Control and Prevention site: https://www.cdc.gov/rabies/exposure/animals/bats.html.