Putnam County confirms case of rabies

PUTNAM CO. — The first bat from Putnam County since 2006 has tested positive for rabies.

The Putnam County Health Department made the announcement after receiving confirmation from the Ohio Department of Health that the bat a Union Township resident brought in for testing has the viral disease.

“Bats provide many benefits such as pollination and pest control but are also a known source of rabies,” Putnam County Health Commissioner Kim Rieman said in a statement. “Residents should not fear spending time outside, but exercise caution around bats due to the risk of rabies.”

The health department advised residents to monitor their pets for signs of illness as rabies can be transmitted through saliva and affects the nervous system.

The disease, which can also be spread through bites and scratches by an infected bat, is almost always fatal to pets.

“In the case of a known exposure, or if one is found in a residence and it is unknown if there was exposure, it should be carefully collected while avoiding direct contact with the bat,” the announcement read. “The health department should then be contacted to determine if the bat should be tested. It is important to contact your primary care physician if you are concerned about exposure to an infected animal.”

The department advised residents to vaccinate all pets older than four months of age to limit the spread of disease.