Rabies-positive bat detected in Barry County, season premiere

BARRY COUNTY, Mich. (WILX) – A rabies-carrying bat has been found in Middleville, the first rabies-carrying bat identified in Barry County this year.

The Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) was notified on June 16 that a bat found in Barry County had tested positive for rabies.

BEDHD said the deadly but preventable disease can be spread to people and pets through bites or scratches from an infected or rabid animal. The health department also said bats are the most common way people in Michigan and the United States come into contact with rabies.

The BEDHD said people and pets should avoid contact with bats – any direct contact with a bat should be considered possible exposure to rabies. Other potential exposures include the discovery of a bat in the same room as a person who may not be aware contact has occurred, such as a sleeping person, a child, or a mentally or physically disabled person. drunk.

If an animal has bitten someone or has been in contact, exposed or bitten by a bat, contact the BEDHD at (517) 541-2641 as soon as possible. The law requires that all animal bites be reported to local animal control and the local health department.

BEDHD urges people not to release the bat if anyone may have been exposed to it, to safely capture the bat for rabies testing, and to contact BEDHD immediately.

It is also important to protect pets against rabies. The best way to do this is to have dogs, cats and ferrets vaccinated against rabies by a veterinarian and to prevent pets from coming into contact with wild animals when outdoors. If a pet has been bitten or scratched by a wild animal such as a bat, raccoon or skunk, contact a veterinarian for instructions on rabies prevention.

To speak to the BEDHD Communicable Disease (CD) Nurse, call (517) 541-2641.

For BEDHD emergencies after hours, weekends and holidays, call (517) 541-2683.

To contact Animal Control, dial:

• Barry County: (269) 948-4805
• Eaton County: (517) 543-5755

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