A bat has tested positive for rabies in Midwestern Ontario.
Huron Perth Public Health says a bat that was tested in the township of Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh tested positive for the virus. The bat was tested after biting someone, who has received rabies post exposure prophylaxis, which will prevent them from contracting the rabies virus.
This is the first animal to test positive for rabies in 2023, and the fourth animal in Huron Perth to test positive since January 2020, all of which were bats.
Rabies is fatal to humans and other mammals who contract it. It is most commonly spread by animals like skunks, foxes, raccoons, and bats. Humans can be infected if they come into contact with the saliva of an animal who has it via a bite or scratch.
If bitten or scratched by an animal, you should immediately wash the wound with soap and water, seek medical help and call your local health unit to report the incident.
“This latest positive result reminds us that rabies is present in Huron Perth,” said Dale Lyttle, Senior Public Health Inspector. “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 an open wound, wash the affected area thoroughly and seek medical attention immediately.”
For more information:
-Huron Perth Public Health: 1-888-221-2133
-Visit www.hpph.ca
