McHenry Co. breaks 2007 record for rabid bats

Officials from the McHenry County Health Department confirmed today that they've found 16 rabid bats in the county, a figure that shatters last year's record of 13.

Moreover, the shortage of a vaccine meant to combat rabies has doubled the department's efforts to spread the word about rabies prevention.

The latest diseased bats were found last Wednesday in Algonquin and Crystal Lake, Friday in Woodstock and Monday in McHenry, according to a news release.

None of them had any contact with humans.

Some 62 rabid bats have been found statewide. Locally, they've also been found in Cary, Island Lake and Spring Grove.

The unexpected demand for the human rabies vaccine nationwide has created a shortage, a county health department release said.

Additional doses of the product, made by drug company Novaris, is expected this fall.

In the meantime, officials advise you to safely trap and keep alive any bats you encounter in and around your home.

If you live in McHenry County and either find a bat or feel you may have been exposed to rabies, call (815) 459-6222.