Rabid bat discovered in Van Buren County

VAN BUREN COUNTY, Mich. – A rabid bat was found in Van Buren County for the first time since 2016, the Van Buren/Cass District Health Department announced.

On September 16, the Health Department was notified of a bat that tested positive for rabies.

The bat was discovered in the 49065 zip code.

The number of positive cases of rabies in bats is higher this year than in past years, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources said.

In total, 40 bats and one dog have tested positive for rabies in Michigan in 2021.

If someone is bitten by a bat, they are urged to not let the bat go, if possible, so that the bat can be tested.

If someone is bitten, they should seek medical attention immediately and contact the local health department or animal control agency for rabies testing.

For more information about what to do if you think you have had rabies exposure in humans or animals, contact the Health Department via their website or by calling 269-621-3143 and ask to speak with a Public Health Nurse.

Click here for more information on rabies.

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