Health officials reported a bat testing positive for rabies in Burlington, Ont., which is the first confirmed case in the area this year, according to Halton Region Public Health on Friday.
Bats in Hamilton and Haldimand-Norfolk were found to have rabies in June, leading local health units to issue warnings.
Rabies is a viral infection that spreads through the saliva of infected animals, as noted by Halton public health in a news release.
If not treated, it can be deadly; however, humans can prevent the disease with a rabies vaccine, “which is extremely effective, but only if it is administered before symptoms occur,” they explained.
“Although rabies in bats is rare, bites from rabid bats have caused almost all human cases of rabies in Canada,” public health stated, adding that due to their small, needle-like teeth, bites may go unnoticed.
“If you have been bitten, scratched or exposed to bat saliva, wash any wounds thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately,” they advised.
Public health urged anyone who finds bats at home to contact local animal control services. You can also report any animals you suspect might have rabies to the province.
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