Rabid bat found in Spring Grove

One year after they reported more rabid bats than anyone else in the state, McHenry County health officials this week confirmed their first rabid bat of 2010.

The bat, officials said in a statement, was found April 15 in a yard in Spring Grove. No exposure was reported, according to the McHenry County Department of Health.

Last year the county reported 17 rabid bats, more than 20 percent of the 83 confirmed statewide.

In 2008, the county reported 23 of the state's 103 rabid bars. When a bat is found in a home, it is strongly recommended that it not be released but contained in a room, under a bucket or blanket, using gloves as a barrier.

In order to test bats for rabies, it is important they be in good condition - either alive or recently deceased.

McHenry County Animal Control should be contacted immediately (815) 459-6222.