Overview
- A local resident captured a bat over concerns it may have contacted household pets and Racine County Public Health later confirmed the bat tested positive for rabies.
- Racine County Public Health arranged laboratory testing, investigated the incident, and ensured any animals potentially exposed were quarantined or given rabies shots as needed.
- Health officials told residents to avoid handling wild animals, keep children away from unfamiliar animals, and contact their veterinarian or the health department if a pet may have been exposed.
- Anyone bitten or scratched should wash the wound with soap and water immediately and seek medical care because prompt post‑exposure treatment can prevent rabies before symptoms develop.
- Officials emphasized that rabies is rare in the U.S. but is most often seen in bats and certain wild mammals, so keeping pets’ rabies vaccinations current remains the key way to protect people and animals.