Illinois bat tests positive for rabies, Tazewell County health officials say

TAZEWELL COUNTY, Ill. (WMBD) – The Tazewell County Health Department announced Wednesday that it found and tested a bat for rabies in the county.

According to a news release from the health department, this is the second year in a row that a bat has tested positive for rabies within the county after another bat tested positive in October 2023.

The department said bats primarily carry rabies in Illinois and pet owners should update their pets’ vaccinations and avoid bats if possible.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , rabies is a potentially deadly disease that spreads through bites and scratches from infected animals. The virus can affect the central nervous system and lead to severe brain disease and death if untreated.

Residents should never try to handle bats themselves. If you or anyone you know find a bat inside your home, then seal it inside a room and call Tazewell County Animal Control at (309) 925-3370 or after hours at (309) 346-3132.

Report any bites to animal control, and wash the injury thoroughly before seeking medical attention.

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