Rabies warning issued after 8 bats test positive

BLOOMINGTON -- Health officials in McLean County in central Illinois are asking residents to take precautions to protect themselves against rabies.

The message comes after eight bats have tested positive for rabies in the county. The health department says that's the highest amount in 20 years. Officials say one resident in Normal has received post-exposure rabies vaccinations after a bat was found in her bedroom.

The Illinois Department of Health says statewide 68 bats have tested positive for rabies in 17 counties.

Experts suggest residents who find a bat indoors try to contain it to one room. They urge residents not to touch the bat and call the local animal control agency.