(WTAQ-WLUK) — The Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department has confirmed its first case of rabies in a bat this year.
The rabies virus is transmitted from infected mammals to humans, typically via bite but can also be transmitted by saliva exposed to broken skin. It’s invariably fatal once symptoms appear.
If a person has had any physical contact with a bat and the possibility of a bite or scratch cannot be ruled out, rabies preventive treatment may be necessary.
Early symptoms of rabies may include irritability, headache, fever, double vision, and itching or pain at the exposure site. The disease eventually progresses to spasms of the throat and the muscles used for breathing, convulsions, delirium, paralysis, and death. It is important to note that by the time any symptoms may appear, rabies cannot be successfully treated.
Ways to prevent the spread of rabies:
- Ensure all pet dogs, cats, ferrets, and livestock are vaccinated against rabies
- Stay away from all wild animals, especially those acting abnormally
- Do not keep exotic or wild animals as pets, regardless of how young or cute they may be
- Exclude bats from inside living quarters by keeping screens in good repair and closing up any small openings that could allow them to enter
- Teach children not to approach any unfamiliar animals
If you are bitten or scratched, follow these steps:
- Promptly cleanse the bite wound with liberal amounts of soap and water
- Contact your physician or go to your local emergency room
- If the offending animal can be safely captured without further injury, hold the animal until the local health department can be consulted
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