Hamilton confirms first rabid bat of 2022 after resident bitten
Published March 28, 2022 at 1:28 pm
Hamilton Public Health Services has confirmed the city’s first rabid bat since May 2021 after it recently bit a local resident.
According to a press release issued Monday (March 28), the Hamilton resident who was recently bitten is under the care of health-care providers.
“This serves as a reminder to stay away from bats and other animals that can carry rabies such as raccoons, skunks, foxes, as well as stray or unknown cats and dogs,” the release said.
The City of Hamilton has been navigating an outbreak of rabies, mainly in raccoons and skunks, since late 2015. Since that time, 330 animals have tested positive for rabies, including one fox and two stray cats.
The rabies virus can be fatal to mammals, including humans, and is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal.
Residents are urged to call Hamilton Animal Services at 905-546-2489 if they see a dead, sick or strangely acting raccoon, skunk, bat, or another wild animal.
Videos
If someone is bitten by an animal or had direct contact with an animal’s saliva, they are urged to wash the wound with soap and water and to seek medical attention immediately or call Public Health Services at 905-546-2489.
insauga's Editorial Standards and Policies advertising