Rabid bats found in Kane County; make sure pets vaccinated

The Kane County Health Department has reported that two bats have tested positive for rabies so far this year. One was found in Elgin, the other in Dundee Township. Although both were discovered in residences, there were no human or pet exposures.

"As we head into the warm summer months, this is a good time to remind everybody about the importance of the preventive measures they can take to protect themselves and their pets," said Paul Kuehnert, executive director of the health department. "Obviously, the most important measure people can take is to ensure that their pet's vaccinations are up-to-date."

Not only does the vaccine protect the pet, it also serves as barrier of protection for people, Kuehnert said. Because many of the positive bats are discovered indoors, it is important to vaccinate pets even if they never venture outside.

Last year, Kane County reported nine rabid bats. The state of Illinois recorded 113 confirmed cases of rabies in animals last year - all found in bats. Bats are the primary carriers of rabies in Illinois. A case of human rabies has not been reported in Illinois since 1954.

Other prevention guidelines include:

• Rabid bats may exhibit no obvious abnormalities, so all contact with bats should be avoided.

• Where there is a likelihood of encountering bats, such as at children's outdoor camps, people should be instructed not to touch bats.

• People should not be allowed to occupy a room in which bats are found, until it is certain that no bats remain in the room and that the room has been sealed to prevent their re-entry.

• If a bat is found indoors, the structure should be thoroughly inspected for the presence of roosting bats.

• Exclusion remains the best way to prevent and control bats in a structure.

• Keep pets under direct supervision so they do not come in contact with wild animals. If your pet is bitten by a wild animal or exposed to a bat, seek veterinary assistance for your pet immediately.

Call the local law enforcement or animal control agency for direction as to whom to contact for the removal of contained stray animals in your neighborhood. More information about rabies is available by calling the health department at (630) 208-3801 and asking for the Communicable Disease program.

Information about exclusion can be found by logging on to the Illinois Department of Public Health Web site at www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/pcbats.htm. For information about a referral for capturing bats or for instructions on submission of appropriate specimens for testing, call Kane County Animal Control at (630) 232-3555.