City of Hamilton confirms first case of bat rabies in 2017 City reminds public to keep a safe distance from wild animals

HAMILTON, ON - August 24, 2017 - Hamilton Public Health Services received confirmation of the first positive rabid bat this year. This is a reminder to stay away from bats and other animals that can carry rabies such as raccoons, skunks, foxes, as well as stray or unknown cats and dogs.

​Hamilton currently has an outbreak of rabies, mainly in raccoons and skunks with 260 animals testing positive since December 2015 (87 in 2017). In addition to raccoons and skunks there has been one fox and two stray cats test positive. Bats have tested positive for rabies almost every year in Hamilton. Since 2013, eight bats in contact with people have tested positive.

It is important to take precautions to avoid contact with rabid animals.

“Because rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms start, we want our community to be aware of the serious outcome of rabies and the risk of rabies from bats and other animals. If someone is bitten or scratched by an animal they need to clean the wound and seek medical attention right away so their rabies risk can be assessed and rabies can be prevented.”

Dr. Elizabeth Richardson, Medical Officer of Health
City of Hamilton

Tips to prevent rabies

• Always keep a safe distance from, and avoid contact with wild animals including raccoons, skunks, bats, unknown dogs and cats and other wild animals. Rabies can make animals aggressive or it can make them appear sick, scared, or friendly.
• Bat proof your home.
• Call Hamilton Animal Services at 905-546-2489 if you see a dead, sick or strangely acting raccoon, skunk, bat, or other wild animal.
• Do not feed, help, handle, relocate any wildlife or keep them as pets.
• If you are bitten by an animal, or had direct contact with an animal’s saliva, wash the wound with soap and water, seek medical attention immediately or call Public Health Services at 905-546-2489.
• Vaccinate your pets against rabies, keep rabies vaccinations current for dogs and cats to protect them, and prevent any spread to people.
• Contact your vet if your pet is in contact with a wild animal, including bats.

Bat Stats

2013 - 1

2014 - 2

2015 - 2

2016 - 2

2017 - 1

For information about rabies, visit www.Hamilton.ca/rabies. Learn more about rabies in Ontario.