Public health officials say a dead bat found in the west end of Guelph has tested positive for rabies.
“This is the first official report of rabid wildlife in the Guelph area since 2012,” said Jessica Morris, environmental health manager for Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) in a press release.
“Protect yourself and your family by vaccinating all pets and staying away from wildlife,” including bats and stray cats and dogs.
Officials say there was no human contact with the bat, but an unvaccinated dog was potentially exposed and is under confinement at home for three months.
“If you come across a dead bat on your property, wear gloves and use caution to pick it up and place it in a sealed container,” states a WDGPH press release.
“If you see a live bat that is acting suspicious or looks sick, call animal control services. If there is concern that a human has been directly exposed to the bat, contact public health.
“For concern about a domestic animal that has been directly exposed to the bat, contact your local veterinarian.”
Rabies is a fatal virus that affects mammals, including humans, and is most commonly spread by wild animals like raccoons, skunks, foxes and bats. Rabies is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, usually through a bite. However, saliva can also enter the body through scratches, open wounds or mucous membranes of the mouth, nose and eyes.
Those bitten or scratched by an animal, or those in contact with a suspicious animal and concerned about exposure to rabies, should contact a physician or go to a hospital emergency department. Report the animal bite or scratch to WDGPH at 1-800-265-7293 ext. 4753. On evenings and weekends, call 1-877-884-8653.
If a dog or cat has been bitten or scratched by, or otherwise comes in contact with, a suspicious animal, the owner should contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.
For more information about rabies, visit wdgpublichealth.ca/rabies.
