SHAWANO COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The discovery of a rabid bat in Shawano County is prompting health officials to remind people to protect themselves and pets against the disease.
Rabies is transmitted through exposure to an infected animal. It is usually transmitted through a bite, but can be transmitted through a scratch or if the animal’s saliva is exposed to broken skin.
Since rabies is nearly always fatal and cannot be successfully treated after symptoms appear, those who have had physical contact with a bat and cannot rule out the possibility of a bite or scratch may need preventative treatment.
To prevent the spread of rabies, the Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department recommends:
- Ensure all pet dogs, cats, ferrets, and livestock are vaccinated against rabies
- Stay away from all wild animals, especially those acting abnormally
- Do not keep exotic or wild animals as pets, regardless of how young or cute they may be
- Exclude bats from inside living quarters by keeping screens in good repair and closing up any small openings that could allow them to enter.
- Teach children not to approach any unfamiliar animals
- If a bat is found inside your home, do not release it until you have spoken with the health department, as testing may be necessary.
Those who are bitten or scratched should:
- Promptly cleanse the bite wound with liberal amounts of soap and water
- Contact their physician or go to their local emergency room
- If the offending animal can be safely captured without further injury, hold the animal until the local health department can be consulted.
The positive rabies test is the first in a bat in Shawano County this year. Health officials say it is not unusual for the county to have at least one wild bat test positive for rabies each year.
