Local Rabies Update
Health officials recently confirmed a rabies-positive bat in Hamilton County, marking the second positive bat identified in the county this year. Although no human exposures were reported, the case is an important reminder that rabies remains present in Southwest Ohio wildlife. To view a map of all counties that have reported cases, please visit the Ohio Department of Health's website by clicking HERE.
What Is Rabies?
Rabies is an infectious virus that attacks the brain and nervous system of mammals, including dogs, cats, wildlife, livestock, and humans. It is spread through the saliva of an infected animal, usually through a bite. Once clinical signs appear, rabies is almost always fatal, making prevention through vaccination critically important.
Rabies Around the World
While rabies is uncommon in vaccinated pets here in the United States, it remains a major global health problem. An estimated 59,000 people die from rabies each year, someone dies approximately every nine minutes, and nearly 40% of human deaths occur in children under 15 years of age. Worldwide, about 99% of human rabies cases result from bites by infected dogs. Vaccinating dogs remains the single most effective way to eliminate human rabies.
Why Bats Matter in Ohio
Even though rabies can infect any mammal, it is most commonly found in the bat population in Ohio. They can enter homes through tiny openings, and their bites may be so small they go unnoticed. Even indoor pets can be exposed if a bat enters the home.
Other Wildlife That Can Carry Rabies:
- Raccoons
- Skunks
- Foxes
- Coyotes (less commonly)
What Should You Do If Your Pet Finds a Bat?
- Keep your pet away from the bat.
- Do not touch the bat with your bare hands.
- If possible, safely contain the bat so it can be tested.
- Contact Cincinnati Family Vet immediately.
- Follow your veterinarian's recommendations based on your pet's vaccination status.
Did You Know?
- Rabies is nearly 100% fatal once symptoms develop.
- A person dies from rabies somewhere in the world about every nine minutes.
- Indoor cats and dogs can still be exposed if a bat enters your home.
- Keeping your pet vaccinated protects your family and your community.
Prevention Is the Best Medicine
At Cincinnati Family Vet, we know your pets are family. Rabies vaccination is one of the safest and most effective ways to protect your pet, your family, and our community. If your pet is due for a rabies vaccine or has had any contact with a bat or other wild animal, please contact our team. One simple vaccine can prevent a disease that has no cure.
Sources:
Rabies Confirmed in Southern Ohio After Animal Tests Positive – Scioto County Daily News