Testing has confirmed that two bats originating from the Grey Bruce area have tested positive for Rabies. One bat was found in the Town of the Blue Mountains and the second in the Municipality of Brockton.

Investigations have taken place in both cases to ensure that there is no risk to the health of the residents.

There were no known positive animals in 2019, however, 2018 saw one positive animal.

Rabies is a preventable but deadly disease of the central nervous system that affects humans and other mammals. The virus is found in the saliva of rabid animals and can spread through a bite, or if the saliva comes in contact with a cut, scratch or the moist tissues of the mouth, nose or eyes. Rabies is fatal to un-protected animals and without timely preventative treatment after exposure will cause death in humans. Post exposure treatment following rabies exposure includes a series of vaccinations and an injection of Immune Globulin based on your weight.

There is no known treatment for rabies once the symptoms appear.

This incident is a reminder that rabies continues to be present in local wildlife.

Exposure can be prevented by:

• Not feeding or touching a wild or unknown animal, an animal acting strangely or an animal that appears to be sick or injured.

• Keeping pets under control at all times.

• In order to help prevent the spread of rabies in Ontario, it is the law to immunize cats, dogs, and ferrets. Livestock (including horses, cattle and sheep) that may have contact with the general public must also be immunized.

source: media release, Grey Bruce Health Unit