Rabies found in Regina bat

A bat found in a backyard in Regina's Cathedral neighbourhood has tested positive for rabies, health officials announced Thursday.

The infected animal is the third positive case in six years noted by the Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region.

"This occurs from time to time," Dr. Maurice Hennink, the deputy medical health officer for the region, said.

Hennink said people need not be concerned but should follow basic precautions when it comes to bats.

"People should be aware that if you see a bat that is behaving abnormally, not flying properly, just lying on the ground etc. to not touch it," he said. If you must handle it, he said, you should wear protective gloves and contact the health region.

Hennink said officials would assess the situation to determine if further testing of the animal was necessary due to suspicious of rabies. He said there is no need to test all bats people encounter unless there is an indication that the animal is behaving abnormally. In the most recent case, the bat appeared to be dead and non-responsive, but was alive.

Skunks testing positive

He said there has also been an increase in the number of skunks testing positive for rabies in rural parts of the province. He said that, too, is normal. 

Rabies affects the nervous system and — as it progresses — affects the mobility of the animal infected. The virus eventually leads to death. Hennink noted there is no way to reverse rabies, once it has taken hold.

"Any bat that we submit for testing will have some abnormality," he said. 

The region also provided a number of other tips, including:

• Avoid direct contact with wild animals as well as potentially rabid animals.
• Avoid contact with bats, wild animals and animals that show abnormal behavior.
• Ensure your pets' vaccination against rabies and other diseases are up to date.
• Bat proof your home with screens, as well as ensuring there are no other entry points for bats.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you have an animal bite from a wild animal or a domestic animal or pet if you are not certain their rabies vaccinations are up to date.
• If you have a bat encounter, seek advice by calling Public Health Services at 306-766-7755 or call HealthLine at 811.