Rabies in Bats - A Cause for Concern
A number of wildlife species, including bats, are known for their propensity to carry and transmit rabies. A 2019 news report indicated that a bat in Pickering tested positive for rabies in what was identified as the first confirmed case since 2017. The information was cited in a declaration from the Regional Municipality of York and it has an impact on Pickering residents especially considering the fact that bats can pass on the disease to other animals.The Impact of Rabies
Rabies is potentially deadly for domesticated and wildlife animals alike. It is passed on by saliva, bites or scratches from a carrier animal and is known to affect wild animals such as raccoons, foxes, bats, and skunks, but can also affect domesticated animals like cats and dogs. The disease attacks the central nervous system of its victim (warm-blooded animals including human beings). Without prompt and appropriate medical intervention, a rabies infection can be fatal. If rabies gets transmitted to your pets, it passes easily on to you and the remainder of your family. If you suspect that you or a member of your family has been exposed to rabies, get in touch with a health care professional immediately so that you can get the post-exposure vaccine.