Will County officials confirmed Wednesday that a sixth rabid bat has been found, the second in Joliet in two months, according to the Office of the Will County Executive.
The infected animal was discovered at a home in the 700 block of Oakland Avenue, according to officials.
A resident hit the bat with a broom and scooped it into a cup before storing it in a freezer for Joliet Animal Control to retrieve, officials said. Subsequent testing came back positive for rabies.
No human or pet came in contact with the bat, and no rabies treatment was required, according to reports.
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A fifth bat that tested positive for the highly contagious and potentially deadly virus was found last month flying inside a Joliet home. The fourth was discovered in July at a pond near a house in unincorporated Custer Park.
These discoveries follow a Crete woman being bitten in July in the hand and neck by a rabies-infected bat. The woman had to undergo treatment.
July, August and September are a prime months for bat exposure, officials said.
Simple guidelines can help prevent the spread of rabies, according to officials. People should avoid contact with wildlife and strays. Make sure vaccinations for pets are up to date and don’t let pets roam free. Bird feed should be stored in containers with snug-fitting lids and trash cans should be closed tightly. Children also should be taught to be cautious of wild animals.
Anyone who comes in contact with a bat or other warm-blooded animals should contact their local animal control agency immediately, according to officials. Wildlife that wanders into a yard need to be avoided. Will County officials recommend reporting any instances of animals acting strangely to animal control.
Homes should be guarded against bats and other animals from entering, according to officials. Outside openings to attics, basements, porches and garages can be closed up, and chimney openings can be covered with screens.
Will County Animal Control is available 24 hours a day at 815-462-5633.
Nick Swedberg is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.