Bat tests positive for rabies in Clark County

The Clark County Health Department (CCHD) is alerting the public regarding a report of a bat testing positive for rabies in the northern part of Clark County. According to an Aug. 23 press release, the bat was confirmed to have the disease after being tested after an encounter with an individual.

Rabies is a viral disease affecting the central nervous system. The rabies virus is spread from infected mammals to humans (typically via a bite) and causes fatal swelling of the brain and spinal cord. If preventative treatment is obtained quickly following a rabies exposure, most cases of rabies can be prevented.

The CCHD recommends the following prevention measures:

• Vaccinate pet dogs, cats, and livestock against rabies.

• Do not handle wild animals.

• Do not keep exotic or wild animals as pets, regardless of how young or cute they are.

• Teach children not to approach unfamiliar animals.

• Exclude bats from living quarters by keeping screens in good repairs and by closing any small openings that could allow them to enter.

If you have a known bite or scratch from a bat, wash the wound immediately with soap and water. Bats have small teeth which may leave marks that are not easily seen. Therefore, if you awaken and find a bat in your room, see a bat in the room of an unattended child, or notice a bat near a mentally impaired or intoxicated person, it is recommended to take preventive measures.

If possible, try to safely capture the bat while keeping the head intact and without causing further injuries to oneself, so the bat can be tested for rabies. Do not touch the bat with your hands and avoid direct contact. Call your local health department immediately for recommendations after an exposure to a bat.

For more information regarding rabies, contact the CCHD at 715-743-5105 or visit clarkcountywi.gov/ ph-animal-bites.