5th rabid bat found in Lake Co.

Lake County health officials are urging residents to avoid contact with bats after a fifth bat tested positive for rabies.

The rabid bat was found Wednesday in a Libertyville yard and no human or pet contact with it was reported. Other bats that have tested positive this year were picked up in Lake Villa, Waukegan, Deerfield and Libertyville.

Last year, nine bats in Lake County tested positive for rabies. Residents are cautioned to make sure their animals are up to date on their rabies vaccinations. Rabies is an almost always fatal disease that affects the nervous system but is fully preventable, health officials said.

Anyone who has contact with a bat or notices one acting in an unusual manner, such as flying in daylight, lying on the ground or being inside a home should call (847) 949-9925.