OUTAGAMIE COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Health officials are urging people to protect their pets — and themselves — after a bat found in Outagamie County tested positive for rabies.
Rabies is a fatal but preventable viral disease that is usually spread to people and pets when they are bitten or scratched by an infected animal.
Those who are bitten or scratched are advised to clean the wound with plenty of soap and water for 10-15 minutes, and seek medical attention immediately.
The county health department also recommends:
- Keep your dogs, cats, ferrets, and other animals up-to-date on vaccines
-All dogs, cats, and ferrets are required by law to be vaccinated against rabies - Never touch bats or wild animals
- Do not let pets roam free
- Do not attract wild animals
-Cover garbage cans securely and do not leave food outside - Prevent bats from entering your home.
-If a bat is found inside your home, do not release it until you have spoken with the health department, as testing may be necessary
“Keeping pets up to date on their rabies vaccination is the most effective way to protect your family and community,” health officer Natalie Vandeveld said in a news release. “Rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear, but it is entirely preventable with vaccination.”
Wisconsin officials say there have been 19 total reported positive rabies test results in the state so far this year.
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