Rabid Bat Found In Cat's Mouth In Lockport

LOCKPORT, IL — A rabid bat was found in the mouth of a homeowner's cat in Lockport, according to Will County Health Department. This is the sixth rabid bat found in Will County this year.

According to the department, the bat was found on Saturday, June 30 at a home in the 16500 block of McKenzie Avenue. It tested positive for rabies July 2 at a Illinois Department of Public Health laboratory. The bat was found in the mouth of a cat, but the cat is up to date on its rabies vaccinations and the owner will seek advice from a veterinarian, health officials said.

The department said none of the residents had exposure to the bat.

Bats discovered in Will County need to be immediately reported to Will County Animal Control at 815-462-5633. The Will County Animal Control program maintains a 24-hour answering and emergency pick-up service for confined stray animals, injured animals and stray biters.

The department said Will County residents are reminded to remove any people and animals from the area where the bat is, close off the vicinity where the bat is located if possible, and look over all present residents and pets that were around the bat for any small puncture or bite marks. Remember to have your pets currently vaccinated against rabies.

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