Rabid bat found in backyard of home near St. Charles

A bat found in the backyard of a home in unincorporated St. Charles tested positive for rabies, authorities say.

Kane County Animal Control was notified that the bat was found on Aug. 16. The Illinois Department of Public Health confirmed the positive result.

It’s the first rabid bat reported in Kane County since 2024, when two bats tested positive.

Officials remind anyone who has been bitten by a bat or had potential exposure to contact a medical provider or the Kane County Health Department at (630) 208-3801 as soon as possible.

Finding a bat inside a home or workplace may be considered a potential exposure, particularly if there is a possibility that someone had contact with the animal.

Animal control also reminds residents to make sure dogs and cats are current on their rabies vaccinations and to keep pets on a leash or supervise them when outdoors.

rwest@dailyherald.com