Bats have small, needle-like teeth that result in bites that can go easily undetected. Unlike other mammals that carry rabies (such as foxes, raccoons and skunks), bats cannot be vaccinated using baits.
It is not always possible to identify if a bat has rabies, however, rabid bats may display the following signs:
- lose the ability to fly
- active during daylight hours
- are not afraid of noises
- may appear to be lazy
It is important to seek medical attention and consult the local health unit if you have contact with a bat.
When bats are involved in an exposure that could potentially transmit rabies, a trained wildlife removal operator, licenced pest control operator or local animal control department should be contacted to capture the bat. The person should use extreme caution to ensure that there is limited contact with the bat. The bat should be humanely euthanized by a veterinarian so it can be submitted for rabies testing in consultation with the local health unit.
If a bat is wandering in daylight or crawling on the ground, it may be rabid so stay away. If you see bats outside, leave them alone. Seek medical attention immediately if you are bitten, scratched or exposed to bat saliva.
If the bat is available, it may be sent for testing to rule out potential rabies exposure. Call to speak to a public health inspector at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520.
Contact the local health unit to discuss if there is the need for post-exposure rabies vaccination.
Only testing can determine whether or not the bat is carrying rabies. When a health care provider does not know this information, they may recommend rabies post-exposure vaccination.