Bat found in Northern Michigan home tests positive for rabies

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A bat found inside a residence in Northern Michigan has tested positive for rabies.

The Grand Traverse County Health Department confirmed the news on Monday, noting that the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services tested the bat after possible human exposure.

All individuals identified as exposed are receiving the necessary post-exposure medical care, officials said.

Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, typically through a bite or scratch.

Bats are the most common carrier of rabies in Michigan with 33 positive cases confirmed as of Sept. 18. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal, but it is preventable with prompt medical care and vaccination after exposure.

Grand Traverse officials are strongly encouraging the community to be vigilant and take precautions to prevent potential rabies exposure.

Health officials recommend the following steps to protect yourself and families against rabies:

• Avoid contact with wild animals, especially bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. 
• Keep pets vaccinated against rabies. This includes cats, dogs, ferrets, horses, cattle, and sheep. 
• Secure your home—seal openings to prevent bats from entering. 
• Never handle bats or other wild animals with bare hands. 
• If a bat is found in your home, do not release it. Safely contain the bat without directly handling it in any way and contact GTCHD at 231-995-6051 to discuss testing and possible exposure.  
• Seek medical attention immediately if bitten or scratched by an animal or after contact with a bat.