Bat tests positive for rabies in Washtenaw County — Here's what you should do if you're exposed to one

(WWJ) — Health officials in Washtenaw County have confirmed a case of rabies in a bat, the sixth confirmed case in Michigan in 2024 and the first in the county in two years.

The Washtenaw County Health Department announced Wednesday a bat in Ann Arbor — north Michigan Avenue and west of US-23 — tested positive, but did not release any further information about the case, including whether any humans were exposed.

Rabies is a fatal but preventable viral disease that can spread to people and pets if they are bitten or scratched by a rabid animal, according to the health department.

The virus infects the central nervous system, resulting in disease within the brain and then death. If a person is exposed to rabies, the disease can be prevented with a series of shots before symptoms occur.

Most reported cases occur in wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes.

Speaking to WWJ's Taylor Dietz, the health department's Ailen Velazquez says bat bites are small and sometimes undetectable. That's why it's important if you find a bat in your house to call the health department.

"If you find a bat in your home, don't let it out until you talk with the health department," Velazquez said. "It's a great opportunity to remind people that if they find a bat in the house, just call the health department.

Officials say if a bat gets trapped in your house, the best way to capture it is to turn-on all the lights, except in one room. Wait for the bat to fly into the dark room, and close the door.

Costly rabies post-exposure treatments can be avoided if animals are captured and sent for rabies testing.

All bat exposures and animal bites in Washtenaw County can be reported to the health department using their secure online form. You can call 734-544-6700 for immediate assistance during normal business hours.

Anyone outside Washtenaw County who may be exposed to a bat or other wild animal should call their local health department.

"We were enjoying a longer stretch with no rabies-positive animals, but it's not unusual for us to see some rabid bats in the county every year," Velazquez said. "We often see more bat encounters in the summer and fall months, so we want to remind everyone to contact the Health Department if you find a bat in your home."

More information on rabies can be found on the health department's website.

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