ALLEGAN COUNTY, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) laboratory confirmed a bat found in Allegan County tested positive for rabies.
The rabies virus is found in the saliva of infected animals and is spread through bites or scratches.
Residents are urged to stay away from wild animals such as skunks, bats, raccoons, foxes, and stray cats and dogs.
If any animal bites you or your household pet, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical or veterinary attention immediately. To report an animal bite, call 911.
There are simple steps everyone can take to protect themselves from rabies:
– Have pets vaccinated regularly.
– Do not handle stray, wild, or dead animals.
– Keep pets indoors or supervised to limit their exposure to wild animals that may be rabid.
– Use a leash when walking dogs or keep them in a fenced-in yard.
– Do not feed or put water for pets outside.
– Keep garbage securely covered, as these items may attract wild or stray animals.
For more information on rabies, visit https://www.cdc.gov/rabies/. Follow the MDHHS Rabies Assessment for when a person has been exposed.
