Rabid bat in St. Thomas

Elgin St. Thomas Public Health is warning residents to stay away from bats after a rabid one was found in St. Thomas, a first for 2016.

Rabies is spread through the saliva of infected animals from a bite, lick or scratch, causing inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.

Although human cases were rare in Ontario, the health unit stated, infections could be fatal.

Medical Officer of Health Dr. Joyce Lock urged area residents to stay away from all wild animals, and ensure pets had their proper vaccinations.

Bats with rabies tend to move slowly, lose the ability to fly and remain active in daylight hours, but in other cases might not show any obvious signs.

The health unit urged anyone who believed he or she might have been bitten, scratched or had other contact with a possibly rabid animal to wash the affected skin with soap and water and contact a physician.

All animal bites and scratches should be reported to the health unit.