Spring sprung a bit early this year, bringing along with it warmer temperatures, budding trees, blooming flowers, and something not so cheery — bats.
Most people tend to avoid these creepy critters, and for good reason. They are the most common animal in Michigan to transmit rabies, a viral infection contracted through direct contact from an infected animal.
According to Dr. Graham, Medical Director for Mid-Michigan District Health Department (MMDHD), rabies is fatal if left untreated. Therefore, he advises anyone who has been bitten by a bat to seek medical attention right away. Residents should also be aware that bats have small teeth which may leave marks that are not easily seen, and that there are situations in which you should take action, even without an obvious bite wound.
According to Graham, if a bat is found in the room of a sleeping person, in the room of an unattended child, or near a mentally impaired or intoxicated person, it should be treated as though a bite occurred.
In certain circumstances, the bat may need to be tested for rabies. The health department should be notified right away if a bite or exposure has occurred, and will decide whether or not the bat should be tested.
If the health department determines that testing is necessary, the bat will need to be captured and euthanized. Most people do not realize that in order to be tested for rabies, a bat’s head must be kept intact, so hitting it with any type of object, such as a tennis racket, is not advised.
The first step in safely capturing a bat is to make sure not to touch it with your bare skin (leather work gloves are ideal). Have a small box or coffee can, a piece of cardboard and tape ready.
When the bat lands, approach it slowly. Place the box or coffee can over the bat and then slide the cardboard under the container to trap the bat inside. Tape the cardboard securely to the container and contact the health department at 989-227-3111 for euthanizing instructions and to discuss testing and treatment options. To see a video demonstration on safe bat capture, visit www.mmdhd.org (Click on “Community Health” and then on “Communicable Disease”).
It is important to note that:
· Bats should not be placed in the freezer
· The health department does not accept live bats.
· Residents who have captured a bat are asked to call the health department at 989-227-3111 to determine if it needs to be tested.
· Residents should not bring a bat to the health department without calling first.
Residents are also advised to bat-proof their homes by making sure to repair any loose soffits, flashings, eaves and siding. Be sure to cover roof vents with screens, make sure all doors shut tightly with no gaps, and that window screens are not damaged or torn.
Skunks, raccoons, foxes, and unvaccinated cats and dogs are also likely rabies carriers. To help protect yourself from rabies, avoid approaching or touching any wild or stray animal. And remember, if you have been bitten by a bat or other wild or stray animal, contact your health care provider immediately for treatment.