The Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU) has confirmed that a bat collected in Pembroke has tested positive for rabies.
Local human exposure to bats has been on the rise recently- but this is the first confirmed positive case of the disease this year.
Rabies is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the brain and spinal cord and is almost always fatal.
The Health Unit has tips on how people can take precautions to avoid exposure, and the potentially life-saving steps to immediately take if you suspect you’ve been bitten.
Rabies vaccines are highly effective at preventing the disease if administered soon after an exposure.
Report the incident to RCDHU at 613-732-3629 ext 505.
By Rick Stow
