Hamilton resident being treated after exposure to rabid bat

Hamilton Public Health Services says a local resident is being treated due to exposure to a rabid bat.

It’s the first confirmation of exposure to a positive rabid bat since August of last year.

Rabies is a fatal virus that affects mammals, including humans, and is most commonly spread by wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, foxes and bats.

Hamilton Public Health Services says the city currently has an outbreak of rabies, mainly in raccoons and skunks with 330 animals testing positive since December 2015, including two stray cats. Bats have tested positive for rabies almost every year in the Hamilton area

The virus is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, usually through a bite; however, saliva ca also enter the body through scratches, open wounds or mucous membranes of the mouth, nose and eyes.

The agency says it’s important to take precautions to avoid contact with rabid animals and offers the following advice:

• If you are bitten by an animal, or have had direct contact with an animal’s saliva, wash the wound with soap and water, seek medical attention immediately or call Public Health Services at 905-546-2489.
• Always keep a safe distance from, and avoid contact with wild animals including raccoons, skunks, bats, unknown dogs and cats and other wild animals.
• Call Hamilton Animal Services at 905-546-2489 if you see a dead, sick or strangely acting raccoon, skunk, bat or other wild animal.
• Vaccinate your pets against rabies to prevent any spread to people and contact your vet if your pet comes in contact with a wild animal, including bats.

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