August brings an unexpected visitor into homes across Illinois—one that thrives in the shadows and harbors a secret danger. With wings that whisper through the night, bats are more than just nocturnal wanderers. They potentially carry life-threatening diseases that you would like to protect yourself, family, and pets from. As the calls to local health departments rise, we need to educate ourselves on the dangers of these creatures. Here are 6 ways to stay safe.
Bat Encounters Increase
As August rolls in, the McDonough County Health Department sees a rise in calls about bats in homes. Bats are the primary carriers of rabies in Illinois, which is a deadly disease carried by animals that affects the central nervous system.
1. Understanding Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease present in the saliva, brain tissue, and spinal fluid of an infected animal and it can potentially be transmitted to humans. Getting infected with rabies is not complicated. People can get rabies from a bite or simply if the saliva of a rabid animal enters their eyes, nose, mouth, or an open wound.
Bats in Illinois
There are 12 species of bats in Illinois, with four species which you will most likely encounter because they are known to roost in buildings. Bats are nocturnal and they are the only mammals capable of flight! Despite their importance in controlling insect populations they still pose a risk if they enter your home.
2. The Importance of Bat Exclusion
To prevent unnecessary bat encounters, it’s essential to seal any exterior openings in your home during late summer or early fall. Professional wildlife control specialists can assist with proper exclusion methods that will help to keep the bats outside.
3. Steps to Follow After A Bat Contact
If you or someone in your household has contact with a bat, seek medical attention immediately. It’s also crucial to report the incident to your local health department. Then be sure to thoroughly wash any areas that came into contact with the bat by using soap and water.
4. Capturing and Testing Bats
If you are brave enough to capture a bat, avoid damaging its head, as the bat needs to be tested for rabies. If your pet is involved with the bat encounter, it should be observed by a professional for 10 days. Did you know that in Illinois, around 3-5% of bats tested for rabies each year are positive.
5. Preventing Rabies Exposure
The easiest way to prevent rabies is to avoid handling wild animals and never feed them. Protect your pets by getting vaccinations against rabies from an early age. Do not adopt wild animals or try to nurse them back to health but rather call a professional that knows how to deal with the animals.
Bat Guano Is A No-No
Bat droppings, known as guano, can harbor fungal spores that cause histoplasmosis which is a serious respiratory disease. Guano buildup requires professional sanitation and may lead to the replacement of attic insulation. This is another reason why you would like to keep bats from roosting in your home.
6. Professional Bat Removal
If bats have made their way into your home, please don’t try to remove them yourself because rabid bats can be unpredictable, and handling them can be dangerous. It’s best to contact pest control professionals who understand local regulations and then people can safely remove the bats.
Rabies as a Public Health Concern
Rabies is a rare but serious health issue in the U.S., with fewer than 10 human deaths reported each year. The decrease in rabies cases is due to effective pet vaccination, animal control programs, and public health efforts. Despite the low numbers, rabies still remain a risk, especially in areas where wild animals like raccoons, skunks, and foxes carry the disease.
The Role of Wildlife in Rabies Spread
Bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes are the main carriers of rabies in the U.S. The presence of these animals varies by region, with some areas having higher risks than others. Any contact with these animals should be taken seriously, and medical advice should be sought.
Ongoing Rabies Prevention Efforts
The U.S. has comprehensive rabies prevention strategies, including wildlife vaccination programs and pet vaccinations. Humane societies and shelters also play a role in controlling the spread of rabies by rehoming stray animals. Continued research and development are essential to improving rabies prevention and treatment.
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