Third rabid bat found this year in Cook County
A bat found in La Grange, Illinois, tested positive for rabies, according to Cook County officials.
The bat was found on North Waiola Avenue, making it the third rabid bat found in Cook County this year.
Officials remind residents not to handle wild animals and to ensure that pets are up to date on vaccinations. Rabies vaccinations for cats and dogs are required by Illinois law.
Rabies vaccines available in Cook County
The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control is offering free 1-year rabies vaccines and microchips to all dogs and cats in Cook County.
The only thing needed to receive vaccination and a microchip is proof of county residency.
Information on upcoming clinic dates and locations can be found on Cook County's website.
Rabies vaccines are not only for animals, but can be for humans too. While rabies in humans is rare, people who work directly with animals that could have rabies or travel to parts of the world where rabies is common have a higher risk of infection, according to the CDC.
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends that those with a higher risk get a Preexposure Prophylaxis vaccination to prevent human rabies.
Rabies causes and symptoms
Rabies is a fatal disease spread to people and animals through bites or scratches from an infected animal, according to the CDC.
After a potential rabies exposure, the CDC recommends getting medical attention as soon as possible to prevent the disease from developing.
Once symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal.
The first symptoms can look almost flu-like with discomfort, fevers or headaches. The next stage of symptoms include anxiety, confusion, hallucinations, exessive salivation, being panicked by fluids and aggressive behavior.
