Windsor health unit urges caution around animals after bat tests positive for rabies

The medical officer of health for Windsor and Essex County is reminding people not to touch or feed unfamiliar animals after a bat captured in the area tested positive for rabies.

There was no human exposure to the bat, according to a news release issued Monday by the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU), and the risk of rabies transmission in the area remains low.

But Dr. Mehdi Aloosh said it's a reminder to residents that rabies can be deadly to humans, and people should take precautions to avoid being bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal.

They should also ensure their pets are up to date with rabies vaccinations. 

"Rabies is present in our community with bats, raccoons, foxes and skunks as the most common wildlife carriers," Aloosh said. 

Tips to avoid exposure

The health unit offered the following tips for preventing exposure to the virus:

• Do not touch or feed unfamiliar wild or domestic animals, injured animals, or animals that appear sick. Do not disturb animals when they are eating, sleeping or with their young.
• Ensure dogs and cats are up to date on their rabies vaccinations. By law, all cats, dogs and ferrets must have current rabies vaccinations from three months of age onward.
• Keep pets away from wild or stray animals. Monitor pets often when they are outside. Do not attempt to break up an animal fight using your body.
• Keep your garbage properly sealed to avoid attracting wild animals to your home or yard.
• Teach your children about animal safety. Encourage children to immediately tell an adult if they are bitten or scratched by an animal.
• If you notice a wild animal acting strangely, do not approach the animal. Call the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) public rabies hotline at 1-888-574-6656 or contact your local animal control office.

Anyone concerned that a pet may have been exposed to a wild animal and rabies should consult with their veterinarian about the next steps, the health unit said.

People should report all physical contact with domestic or wild animals to the health unit at 519-258-2146 ext. 4475 and seek medical attention immediately if required. 

If the incident occurs outside regular business hours, call 519-973-4510. 

The health unit has more information on rabies on its website.