Beware: Ottawa County Finds First Rabid Animal in Nearly 2 Years

Rabies isn't the problem it once was for animals in West Michigan. While you don't see it often, it's not entirely gone. The Michigan Bureau of Laboratories recently notified the Ottawa County Health Department (OCHD) that a bat submitted for testing came back positive for rabies.

This bat marks Ottawa County's first confirmed rabies case in 2024. Last year, the county had no reported cases in either animals or humans. However, as of July 12, 2024, the state of Michigan has reported 18 rabies cases in animals.

With bats being more active from May through September, the risk of encountering a rabid bat is significantly higher during these months.That's why it's crucial for West Michigan residents to take precautions to protect themselves, their families, and their pets from potential rabies exposure.

Preventing and Avoiding Rabies

Rabies is a serious and often fatal disease, but it can be prevented with proper precautions. Here are some steps to help you avoid rabies in your household:

• Vaccinate Your Pets: Ensure your pets are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations. This is the most effective way to protect them from the disease.
• Avoid Wild Animals: Teach children to stay away from wild animals, even if they appear friendly. Rabid animals can behave unusually, either aggressively or very tame.
• Secure Your Home: Bats can enter homes through very small openings. Make sure your home is secure by sealing any potential entry points, especially in attics and basements.
• Seek Medical Attention for Bites: If you or your pet is bitten or scratched by a wild animal, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately. Post-exposure treatment can prevent rabies if administered promptly.
• Report Suspicious Animals: If you see an animal behaving strangely, contact local animal control or the health department. Do not try to handle the animal yourself.

By taking these precautions, you can help protect your family and pets from rabies. For more information on rabies prevention, visit the CDC’s Rabies page or the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.