A rabid bat has been detected in Monee, Will County, reminding residents to be vigilant of potential rabies exposure. According to the Will County Health Department, bats are a common source of rabies infection in Illinois and tend to be more frequent during summer months.
Rabies is a preventable disease that can be fatal if not treated properly. The department advises residents to stay away from bats and any wild or unfamiliar animal. If you discover a bat in your home, do not kill or release it; instead, consult with local animal control for next steps.
Animal bites may become infected with bacteria, and rabies preventive treatment must begin within days of exposure. Even if an animal appears healthy, changes in behavior can be early signs of rabies. The Illinois Department of Public Health offers tips to prevent the spread of rabies, including not touching or feeding wild animals, never adopting them as pets, and maintaining homes to keep bats out.
Residents are advised to take precautions when interacting with wildlife, such as wearing gloves when approaching a bat, and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten by an animal. The Illinois Department of Public Health website provides more information on rabies prevention and treatment.
Source: https://patch.com/illinois/manhattan/rabid-bat-found-monee-county-reminds-rabies-risk