A Reminder about Rabies & Denman Bats
Rabies is a very very rare but fatal disease caused by a virus (Lyssavirus). In humans, rabies virus comes from an infected animal’s saliva and affects the central nervous system. Wild and domestic mammals are the source of rabies virus, that’s why we vaccinate our pets. Across Canada the wild sources of rabies are bats, foxes, skunks, raccoons or wolves. Dogs and cattle also test positive for rabies in Canada each year. So far in BC, the only wild source has been bats. Bats fly, so they could get exposed to rabies from farther away, but again, infection is very rare. Bats also die from rabies, but because rabies may take a few days or many months to develop, an infected animal may contact others. It is important not to try to handle wildlife with bare hands or when any risk of exposure to saliva is possible.
Known Exposure Procedure
What to do if you have been exposed (bitten, scratched, direct contact with bat saliva):
Human exposure:
- Wash the exposed site thoroughly with soap and water.
Call North Island Health – During Office hours (M-F 8:30-5) 250-331-8555 or Toll free 1-877-887-8835 (After hours: 1-800-204-6166)
They will put you in touch with the correct personnel and procedures. Usually with known exposure, the first vaccination of the immunization procedure is started. (Complete vaccine course: an immunoglobulin and a series of 4 simple vaccinations).
- If available, bat is sent and tested for rabies. Bat can be taken to Island Health or your local veterinarian. If bat tests negative, no further vaccinations are necessary.
Avoid getting exposed! But if exposed, get vaccinated – rabies is fatal.
Pet exposure:
- Contact your veterinarian for their recommendations. Varies whether or not your pet has an up-to-date rabies vaccination. An exposed and unvaccinated pet may be a risk to other domestic animals and to humans.
For bat assistance on Denman please call: Jenny Balke, BC Community Bat Program Coordinator for Denman and Hornby 335-2151 or dhbatproject@gmail.com
