A bat infected with rabies was found in Burlington, marking the first confirmed case of animal rabies in Halton this year, Halton Region Public Health (HRPH) officials said.
In a statement posted Monday, HRPH said the bat was found in the southwest neighbourhood of Aldershot and had "no known human contact."
"Although rabies in bats is rare, bites from rabid bats have caused almost all human cases of rabies in Canada over the past several years," the HRPH said in the statement.
"If you have been bitten, scratched or exposed to bat saliva, wash any wounds thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately."
The HRPH described rabies as a "viral disease" that severely affects the brain and spinal cord which can lead to death today if untreated before symptoms appear. It can spread through the saliva of an infected animal.
"Rabies illness in humans can be prevented by the use of a rabies vaccine, which is extremely effective, but only if it is administered before symptoms occur," read the statement.
They added it's not always possible to know if a bat has rabies, but some infected bats may move slowly, lose the ability to fly, be active during the day or unresponsive to loud noises.
"If you find a bat in your home, do not attempt to move it and contact your local Animal Control Services. To report a wild animal that you suspect may have rabies, follow the steps on ontario.ca/rabies," said the statement.
Burlington bat has rabies. 1st case this year, Halton public health officials say - CBC.ca
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