December 9, 2025
In a concerning development, a bat from northern Barry County, Michigan, has been confirmed as rabies-positive, marking the first such case in the county this year. The Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) has issued an alert regarding this potentially lethal yet preventable disease. Rabies typically spreads through bites or scratches from infected animals, with bats being the primary source of human rabies exposure in Michigan and across the United States.
Authorities urge residents to avoid any contact with bats, as rabies transmission can occur from even minor, unnoticed bites or scratches. It is crucial to treat any direct contact with a bat as a potential rabies exposure. This includes situations where a bat is found in a room with someone who may not be able to recognize a bat encounter, such as a sleeping individual, children, or those with cognitive impairments or intoxication.
Immediate Action Required for Bites and Exposures
If bitten by an animal or exposed to a bat, please contact BEDHD at (517) 541-2641 immediately. Reporting animal bites to local Animal Control and the Health Department is legally mandated.
If you suspect exposure to a bat, DO NOT RELEASE THE BAT. Capture the bat safely for rabies testing and reach out to BEDHD right away. Detailed instructions on capturing a bat are available here or through this video. If the bat cannot be tested, rabies treatment should be considered. However, if testing shows no rabies, treatment is unnecessary. Note that BEDHD does not provide rabies preventive treatment, so consult a healthcare provider for those services.
Protecting Pets from Rabies
Vaccinating pets against rabies is as critical as safeguarding humans. Ensure that dogs, cats, and ferrets are up-to-date with their rabies vaccinations through a licensed veterinarian and minimize their exposure to wildlife. If a pet is suspected to have been bitten or scratched by a wild animal, such as a bat, raccoon, or skunk, contact a veterinarian promptly for advice on protecting both the pet and household from rabies.
For comprehensive information, visit www.michigan.gov/Rabies. To speak directly to the BEDHD Communicable Disease Nurse, call (517) 541-2641. For emergencies after hours, during weekends, or on holidays, contact (517) 541-2683.
Contact Information for Animal Control
- Barry County: (269) 948-4805
- Eaton County: (517) 543-5755
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