OUTAGAMIE COUNTY, Wis. (WFRV) – Health officials in Outagamie County are urging residents to take precautions after a bat in the county recently tested positive for rabies.
In a release sent out on the morning of August 21, Outagamie County Public Health provided tips on how to prevent rabies and what to do if someone thinks they encountered an infected bat.
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According to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, there have been 19 total reported positive rabies results in Wisconsin so far in 2025.
Health officials provided the following tips to prevent rabies:
- Keep your dogs, cats, ferrets, and other animals up-to-date on vaccines
- All dogs, cats, and ferrets are required by law to be vaccinated against rabies
- Never touch bats or wild animals
- Do not let pets roam free
- Do not attract wild animals
- Cover garbage cans securely and do not leave food outside
- Prevent bats from entering your home
- If a bat is found inside your home, do not release it until you have spoken with the health department, as testing may be necessary
Rabies is a fatal but preventable viral disease most often spread to people and pets through the bite or scratch of an infected animal.
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“Keeping pets up to date on their rabies vaccination is the most effective way to protect your family and community,” said Natalie Vandeveld, Health Officer of Outagamie County Public Health. “Rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear, but it is entirely preventable with vaccination.”
It is recommended to seek medical attention right away after possibly coming into contact with rabies. It is also recommended to cleanse an animal bite or scratch wound with plenty of soap and water for 10 to 15 minutes immediately after contact.
