LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) staff have identified the first rabies-positive bat of the year, which was found in the northern region of Barry County.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Rabies is a deadly, but preventable disease that can spread to people and pets through infected animal bites or scratches. While other animals can carry the disease, bats are the most common transmitters in the U.S.
The BEDHD reports that people and domestic animals should avoid contact with bats. Any direct contact with a bat should be considered a possible rabies exposure. If a bat is found in a room with a person who may not be aware that contact has occurred, such as a sleeping person, a child, or someone who is mentally disabled or intoxicated, they should be treated as if they were directly contacted…