Rabid Bat Found In Will County

WILL COUNTY, IL — A rabid bat was identified in Will County, according to officials at the Illinois Department of Public Health.

The bat was discovered in Elwood, Will County Health Department staff said Wednesday. It is one of two that tested positive for rabies; the other was found May 14 in Homewood, Patch reported.

RELATED: Rabid Bat Found In Homewood

"Rabies is a fatal but preventable disease," IDPH Director Sameer Vohra said in a statement. "It is important that Illinois residents know how to prevent rabies exposure to protect themselves and their loved ones. Bats are the most common carriers of the rabies virus in Illinois but not the only carrier. Illinois residents should stay away from bats and any wild, unfamiliar, or stray animal, as well as any animal that appears to be sick. Groups of bats can move into people’s homes and that underscores the importance of knowing the ways of keeping bats out of your home."

Residents should not handle bats, skunks, or other wild animals. If a bat or skunk is found down or dead on your property, residents should contact the Cook County Department of Animal Control at 708-974-6140.