A rabid bat has been identified in Van Buren County.
The Van Buren Cass District Health Department says the bat was collected from a home in Lawton.
This is the first case of rabies in an animal in Van Buren County this year, and the last time an animal in the county tested positive for rabies in the county was in 2021.
The health department is reminding residents that bats are more active this time of year, which means the possibility of exposure to rabies is higher.
It says if someone has been bitten by an animal or has been in contact with a bat, they should seek medical attention and then contact the health department as soon as possible. State law requires that animal bites be reported. Also, if possible, do not let the bat go. Try to catch it so it can be tested.
You can find out more at Michigan.gov/rabies.
