Bat in Tazewell County tests positive for rabies

PEKIN – A bat found in Pekin has tested positive for rabies, prompting health officials to warn residents about the dangers of rabies exposure.

This is the first rabid bat found in Tazewell County since June of 2020, according to the Tazewell County Health Department. Earlier this summer the Peoria County Health Department reported that three rabid bats had been found there this year.

Bats are more active this time of year, which increases the chance of rabies transmission.

It’s important for residents to make sure their animals are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations, and to know how to protect themselves from exposure if they come in contact with a bat outside or in their home.

Use extreme caution if you come upon a nocturnal animal like a bat, skunk or raccoon, during daylight hours as they may be sick.

In Illinois, bats are the primary carriers of rabies, a disease of the nervous system that is always fatal if left untreated.

How to protect yourself from bats

The Tazewell County Health Department provided the following guidelines to help protect people and pets from rabies:

● If you see a bat in your home, leave the room and close the door if possible. Place a towel under the door to block escape and call Tazewell County Animal Control at 309-925-3370, after hours call 309-346-3132 option 1. Do not attempt to handle or kill the bat. TCAC will respond to capture and impound bats that residents have encountered inside the living space of a home in Tazewell County.

● Report all animal bites to TCAC. If someone has been bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.

● Notify TCAC if you suspect you, another household member, or a pet has been exposed. This includes if the bat was seen in a room with a sleeping child or adult.

● If you find a dead bat in your home, call TCAC for instructions.

● Tightly close all outside doors to prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, churches, schools, and other similar areas where they might have contact with people and pets.

● Carefully examine your home for holes that might allow bats entry. Any opening larger than a quarter inch by half-inch should be caulked. Board up any openings to your attic, basement, porch or garage. Cap chimneys with screens.

● Be sure dogs and cats are updated on rabies vaccinations by consulting with your veterinarian. Vaccinated pets serve as a buffer between rabid wildlife and humans.

● Do not handle wild or domestic animals that have been trapped. Contact TCAC for assistance.

● Encourage children to immediately tell an adult if they are bitten or scratched by an animal. Teach children not to approach or touch any animal they do not know.

For more information about rabies and bats, contact Tazewell County Animal Control at 309-925-3370.