The Peoria City/County Health Department says the public should take extra precautions after a bat with rabies was found in Peoria County.
"With identification of a bat with rabies in Peoria County, I caution any person having exposure to bats to report that exposure immediately to Peoria County Animal Protection Services and Peoria City/County Health Department to assess the need for rabies treatment," Peoria County Animal Protection Services (PCAPS) director Becky Spencer said in a news release.
If you find a bat in your home, officials say you should get out of the house, block its escape and call PCAPS at 309-672-2440, or after hours at 309-674-3131. Dead bats, bites or scratches and trapped wild animals also should be reported to PCAPS.
Officials also advise checking windows, attics, chimneys, basements, porches and garages for any openings a bat could enter. Make sure any pets have up-to-date rabies vaccinations and tell children to let an adult know if they're bitten or scratched by an animal.
Rabies is a dangerous, but preventable, disease that affects the central nervous system and is primarily transmitted through animal bites or scratches.
You can learn more by contacting PCAPS, or the health department at 309-679-6603.
