By KEVIN BERGER, Local Journalism Initiative
The City of Warman issued a warning today to residents about coming into contact with live bats following the discovery of a dead bat in a local backyard that tested positive for rabies.
On Thursday, September 25, a post on the city’s Facebook page indicated that a bat carrying rabies was identified in Warman.
Communications Liason Andy Szachlewicz later clarified via e-mail that the bat had been found over the September 20-21 weekend.
“It is not believed that there are more, but there always could be. You never know,” he said.
The Facebook post warned residents to avoid live bats, particularly those seen in the daytime, and to seek medical attention immediately if they come into contact with a bat.
As detailed on the Saskatchewan Rabies Response Program’s website, rabies is a viral disease that attacks the nervous system of mammals. It is most commonly found in bats, foxes, skunks and racoons, though skunks are the most common carrier in Saskatchewan.
The effects of the disease can appear differently: an animal can appear either depresed or lame/injured, or extremely excited and aggressive. Most instances of rabies are fatal unless proper steps are taken.
If a wild animal is suspected of carrying rabies, the incident should be reported to a local conservation officer.Saskatchewan residents can also call the Ministry of Environment’s toll-free line at 1-800-667-7561.