The health unit for Elgin and Oxford counties issued a rabies warning Monday after a bat that bit someone tested positive for the disease.
The person is getting preventative rabies treatment after the bat was captured in Norwich Township, south of Woodstock, Southwestern Public Health said.
Rabies, a viral disease that spreads through an animal’s saliva and attacks the central nervous system, is fatal to humans if left untreated.
“A positive rabies test result serves as a reminder to all community members that rabies is present in our region, and everyone should know what to do if bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal,” Southwestern public health officials said in a statement.
If bit or scratched by an animal, immediately wash the wound with soap and water, then seek medical attention, said Amy Pavletic, program manager for environmental health.
The third step, she said, is to report the incident to your local public health unit “so that we can investigate and assess the risk of rabies transmission.”
The health unit outlined these tips for residents:
- Vaccinate your pet against rabies and make sure their vaccinations are up-to-date.
- Keep pets indoors at night.
- Contact your veterinarian if your pet has any potential wounds from wild animals.
- Teach children to avoid wild animals and strange pets.
- Do not attempt to touch or feed wild animals.
- Familiarize yourself with signs of rabies in animals and pets.
The health unit also reminds the public to refrain from handling a bat directly and to contact a local wildlife rescue if a bat is in their home.
To learn more about rabies, visit www.swpublichealth.ca/rabies.