A rabid bat was captured in Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh.
Huron Perth Public Health says in a release that it's the first bat to test positive for the rabies virus in the area this year. At this time of year, bats remain active until cooler weather arrives and generally start to hibernate around November. Huron Perth Public Health reminds residents to avoid exposure to bats.
Do not touch or handle a bat with your bare hands. If you have a bat in your home, isolate it to one room, turn on the lights and open a window so the bat can fly out.
To prevent bats from entering your home: -Caulk holes in your home’s exterior, even those as small as one-quarter to one-half inch in diameter. -Tighten screens, cap your chimney, place draft guards under doors leading to the attic and outside, and fill plumbing fixture holes with steel wool or caulk. -Keep doors tightly closed when going outside and coming back indoors.
“If you are bitten or scratched by a bat, or if infectious material (such as saliva) from a bat gets into your eyes, nose, or a wound; wash the affected area thoroughly and seek medical attention immediately,” said Public Health Inspector Patrick Landry. “If you awaken to find a bat in your room, a child’s room, or the room of an incapacitated person, call Huron Perth Public Health.”
“As always, pets should be up-to-date on their rabies shots,” added Landry. Any animal bite should be reported to Huron Perth Public Health right away for follow up.
