OUTAGAMIE COUNTY, WI- Health officials are reminding residents to take steps to protect both themselves and their pets after a bat in Outagamie County tested positive for rabies.
Rabies is a viral disease that is almost always fatal once symptoms appear but is entirely preventable through vaccination. It is most often spread through bites or scratches from infected animals.
Officials recommend residents:
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Keep dogs, cats, and ferrets current on rabies vaccinations (required by law).
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Never touch bats or other wild animals.
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Prevent pets from roaming free.
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Avoid attracting wildlife by securing garbage and keeping food indoors.
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Prevent bats from entering homes. If a bat is found inside, do not release it until contacting the health department, as testing may be needed.
Anyone bitten or scratched by an animal should immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for 10–15 minutes and seek medical attention.
So far this year, Wisconsin has reported 19 positive rabies test results statewide.
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