'Never Touch A Bat:' Rabies Safety Tips From DuPage Health Department

DUPAGE COUNTY — "Never touch a bat," DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) cautions after two bats have tested positive for rabies in the county so far this year. In total, 55 people have been treated for possible exposure to rabies in 2024.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), there are 13 different species of bats in Illinois. Most often, residents are likely to encounter little and big brown bats, silver-haired bats and eastern red bats.

The Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association reports that between 93 and 97 percent of bats will test negative for the rabies virus. Nonetheless, they advise that a bat should be considered rabid until a test has proven otherwise.

DCHD reports that bats are the primary source of rabies in Illinois.

Bats who have been infected with rabies may:

• Be seen during the day (bats are active at twilight or after dark)
• Be found in unlikely places, including on lawns or inside homes
• Be unable to fly

DCHD recommends the following to prevent contracting rabies from bats.

• Secure your home to prevent bats from getting in
• Avoid handling any bats in your home
• Contact animal control for help containing or removing bats
• Do not remove a bat until you have spoken with animal control
• Vaccinate pets for rabies

Residents are advised to seek medical attention immediately if they have been bitten by a bat. Pets should be taken to a veterinarian immediately if they may have been exposed to rabies