Second bat in Brantford-Brant tests positive for rabies

Grand Erie Public Health says another bat in Brantford-Brant has tested positive for the rabies virus.

While no details were shared about where it was located, public health said the animal had no confirmed contact with humans.

This was the second bat to test positive for the virus in Brantford-Brant.

The first case was reported in June.

Officials said one person came into contact with that animal and they received post-exposure rabies prophylaxis, rabies immune globulin and a series of vaccines as a preventative measure.

“The presence of a rabies-positive bat in our community serves as an important reminder to avoid contact with or handling wild animals,” Dr. Jason Malenfant, the acting medical officer of health for Grand Erie Public Health, said in Friday’s media release. “Rabies is fatal if untreated, but preventable with prompt medical attention. Anyone who may have had contact with a bat or other wild animal should seek medical care immediately and notify public health.”

Rabies can be contracted through a scratch or bite from an infected animal, such as a fox, raccoon, skunk or bat.

Experts say people must seek immediate medical treatment before symptoms begin to prevent serious illness. If not, they will usually die within seven to 14 days.

Rabies symptoms include a fever, tiredness, headaches, anxiety or irritability, tingling and numbness. Eventually, the infected brain will swell, causing confusion, seizures and hallucinations. The patient may also develop a fear of water, fresh air or drafts.

A child in Brantford-Brant died after coming into contact with a rabid bat in 2024.

Public Health Ontario said it was the first case of domestic human rabies since 1967.

What to do if you find a bat

Grand Erie Public Health shared the following tips to prevent rabies exposure:

• Avoid touching or feeding wild animals, even if they look healthy
• Make sure pets and livestock are up-to-date with their rabies vaccinations
• If you find a bat in your home, call animal services at 311
• Do not attempt to move the bat on your own
• Stay away from any animal that is acting strangely, is injured or sick

Anyone who has come into direct contact with a wild animal is advised to wash the bite or scratch with soap and water, before seeking immediate medical attention.

They are also urged to report it to their local public health unit.