Halton Health Confirms Bats with Rabies Found in Burlington and Oakville

Published August 10, 2019 at 2:24 pm

Residents are advised to be cautious following two discoveries of wild animals with rabies.

Residents are advised to be cautious following two discoveries of wild animals with rabies.

On Wednesday, August 7, the Halton Region Health Department confirmed that a bat found in the area of Upper Middle Road and Cavendish Drive in Burlington and a bat found in the area of Lakeshore Road and Bronte Road in Oakville have tested positive for rabies.

“The Health Department is reminding residents to avoid all contact with bats and other wild animals,” said Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Halton Region Medical Officer of Health.

“Anyone who comes in physical contact with a bat or other wild animal should see a physician immediately and contact the Health Department.”

While it is not always possible to identify if a bat has rabies, rabid bats may move slowly, lose the ability to fly, remain active during daylight hours or be unresponsive to loud noises.

Here are a few ways you can protect your family and pets:

  • Seek medical attention immediately if you come in contact with a raccoon, skunk, bat or other potentially rabid animal.
  • Report all animal bites or scratches to the Halton Region Health Department.
  • Warn your children to stay away from any wild, stray or aggressive animals.
  • Do not feed or keep wild animals as pets.
  • Do not touch dead or sick animals.
  • Make sure your pet’s rabies vaccinations are up to date.
  • Keep your pet on a leash when off your property.
  • Have your pet seen by a veterinarian if it has come in contact with a raccoon or other wild animal.

These are the first two confirmed cases of rabies in Halton this year. 

For more information, you can visit halton.ca or contact the Halton Region Health Department by calling 311.

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