Bat in Burlington, Ont., tests positive for rabies in 1st case of 2024

A bat in Burlington, Ont., has tested positive for rabies, warns the local public health authority. 

It was found in a central neighbourhood and is the first confirmed case of rabies detected in a bat in the Halton Region this year, said public health in a news release Wednesday. 

A viral disease, rabies can cause severe damage to the brain and spinal cord, says Halton public health. If left untreated before symptoms appear, it can lead to death. 

The virus is spread through saliva of infected animals, usually through a bite or scratch. 

While other wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, foxes and dogs can become infected, rabid bats have caused almost all human cases of rabies in Canada, public health says.

"Bats have small, needle-like teeth, and their bites easily go undetected," says public health's news release.

If you have been bitten, scratched or exposed to bat saliva, public health recommends you wash any wounds thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.  

People can avoid rabies by getting the vaccine, however it's only effective if it's administered before symptoms appear. 

Rabid bats may move slowly, lose the ability to fly, not respond to loud sounds or remain active during the day. 

Residents who find bats in their home are asked to call Animal Control Services.