Health Alert: Ottawa County Bat Tests Positive for Rabies – What You Need to Know

OTTAWA COUNTY, Mich. — A bat in Ottawa County has tested positive for rabies, marking the first case of the year in the area, according to the Ottawa County Department of Public Health (OCDPH).

Recently, the bat was sent to a state lab and confirmed to carry the virus. Luckily, no humans have contracted rabies in the county this year. However, the OCDPH shared key tips to help residents stay safe from this serious disease:

• **Avoid Wild Animals:** Don’t handle bats, or any wild animals. They can carry rabies and not show any symptoms. Leave the care of animals to professionals.
• **Seek Medical Attention:** If you get bitten or scratched, go to a doctor right away. Quick treatment is crucial.
• **What to Do If You Find a Bat:** If a bat enters your home, don’t try to release it. Instead, securely confine it and contact the OCDPH at 616-396-5266 for guidance. If you can’t safely collect the bat, reach out to a pest control expert. For testing, bats can be taken to the Harbor Humane Society at 616-399-2119 or harborhumane.org. You can also learn how to collect a bat securely through the CDC or watch this YouTube video.
• **Vaccinate Your Pets:** Ensure your pets are vaccinated against rabies. Even indoor cats can encounter bats that manage to enter your home.
• **Watch Your Pets:** If your pet is bitten or suspects contact with a wild animal, reach out to your vet immediately. They may need further care or monitoring for rabies.

In total, there were three animal rabies cases reported in Ottawa County in 2024. This year, as of July 17, 2025, Michigan has recorded 16 cases overall, indicating a concerning trend. Public health experts emphasize that staying informed and cautious can significantly reduce the risk of rabies transmission. The CDC recommends regular updates on vaccinations for pets, as rabies is a preventable disease with timely intervention.

For more details about rabies and its prevention, check out the CDC’s website on rabies.

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