Wisconsin health officials warn of rabies threat
MADISON—Wisconsin health officials are warning about the threat of being exposed to rabies from bats.
The state Department of Health Services warns that a rabid bat was diagnosed last week in the northwestern part of the state.
State veterinarian Jim Kazmierczak says it’s uncommon to find a rabid bat this early in the year, but some have been found in January in the past. Most bats become inactive in winter, but some find shelter indoors and may come into contact with people or pets.
Rabies can be transmitted if there is physical contact with a bat, such as getting a nick from a bat’s tooth or claw.
Twenty-nine rabid bats were detected last year in Wisconsin.
Feb 5, 2013 at 10:39 p.m.
Suggest removal
Instead of shooing a bat out, always catch it if you find one in your home otherwise you'll never know for sure if it had rabies. It's hard to be 100% sure that kids or pets have not had contact with a bat. You can always get the after exposure shots to be on the safe side, but those cost about 7000 per person and are often not covered by health insurance. I speak from experience.
Before you post a comment, consider this:
Note: GazetteXtra.com does not condone or review every comment. Read more in our User Policy AgreementPost Comment
Commenting requires registration.