Rabid Bat Confirmed in Niagara County; Homeowner and Dog Exposed

Photo credit Todd Cravens

The Niagara County Department of Health confirmed the presence of a rabid bat in a residence on Saunders Settlement Road. According to health officials, a homeowner came into contact with the bat inside her bedroom on July 26th. The bat was submitted for testing on July 28th and confirmed to be rabid.

As a result of the exposure, the homeowner will undergo post-exposure prophylaxis to prevent the onset of rabies.

Her dog, which was also potentially exposed has been referred for precautionary rabies booster shots.

The Niagara County Department of Health emphasized the continued concern surrounding rabies in bats and urged residents to remain cautious around any bat encounters.

Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms begin, making early intervention critical.

In addition to bats, other common carriers of the rabies virus include raccoons, skunks, and foxes, which have also been found in the area.

It is possible for a rabid animal to shed the virus through direct contact before any symptoms become evident. A definitive rabies diagnosis can only be made through laboratory testing of the animal.

The Department of Health advises residents to take the following steps to prevent rabies exposure:

• Do not feed, touch, or adopt wild animals, stray dogs, or feral cats.

• -Ensure that pets are current on rabies vaccinations. Vaccinated pets serve as a vital barrier between humans and rabid wildlife. The first rabies vaccination for dogs and cats offers protection for one year, with subsequent shots extending protection for up to three years. Pets too young to be vaccinated should remain indoors. By law, all cats, dogs, and ferrets must receive current rabies vaccinations beginning at four months of age. Free rabies vaccination clinics are offered by the Department of Health and listed on their website.

• -Keep pets indoors at night and avoid leaving them outside unattended.

• -Eliminate food sources that may attract wild animals, such as stored bird seed or unsecured garbage. Feed pets indoors and seal garbage cans tightly. Secure all openings to attics, basements, porches, and garages, and place screens on chimneys.

• -Instruct children to report any animal bites and avoid touching unfamiliar animals.

• -If a wild animal is spotted on your property, allow it to leave on its own. Bring pets and children indoors and notify nearby neighbors. If removal is necessary, a nuisance wildlife control officer may assist for a fee. In cases of immediate danger, contact your local law enforcement agency.

• -If your pet has been involved in a fight with another animal, handle it with gloves and isolate it from people and other animals. Call your veterinarian promptly. Vaccinated pets must receive a rabies booster within five days of exposure. Unvaccinated animals exposed to confirmed or suspected rabid animals must be confined for six months or euthanized.

Rabid Bat Confirmed in Niagara County; Homeowner and Dog Exposed