Overview
- A local resident captured a bat that was sent for testing and was confirmed positive for rabies by Racine County Public Health.
- County health officials identified animals that might have been exposed, placed those animals under quarantine, and arranged rabies vaccinations where appropriate.
- Officials told anyone bitten or scratched to wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and to contact a physician or the local health department without delay.
- Racine County Public Health advised residents to avoid handling wild animals, never keep wild or exotic animals as pets, and teach children not to approach unfamiliar animals.
- Public-health context: rabies is often found in bats and some wild mammals, is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, and is preventable with prompt medical treatment for people and current vaccination for pets.