Warning issued
Bat tested positive for rabies in Newmarket

York Region Health Services is warning residents to be cautious around bats after receiving confirmation that one has tested positive for rabies in Newmarket.

Rabies is a viral infection transmitted in the saliva of infected animals. The virus enters the central nervous system of the host, and once symptoms appear it is almost always fatal. A post-exposure vaccine is available in the event of contact with a rabid animal.

Bats are wild animals and as such they should not be approached or touched. Never try to catch a bat or keep one as a pet. If you have bats living on your property and want to remove them, it is best to contact a professional pest control company or wildlife removal company.

Although most animal bites are readily apparent, bites inflicted by bats on a sleeping person, an infant, a child or those with cognitive impairments, may not be felt or leave any visible bite marks.

Follow these instructions:  If you suspect that you may have been bitten by a bat or discover the presence of a bat in a sleeping quarter, it is important that you report this to both your family doctor and Health Connection immediately at 1-800-361-5653 (toll free).  If you discover a bat outdoors and it is found to be either injured, acting strange or dead, do not touch it. Call Health Connection for further direction.  If you discover a live bat in your home, leave the room, close the door, and contact a Wildlife Removal Company and Health Connection. Do not touch a bat with your bare hands.  If you suspect that your pets or livestock have come into contact with a rabid animal, contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) at (905) 883-1600.

If you have questions about rabies or need to report a suspected rabid animal, contact York Region Health Services Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653 (toll free).