A man and his son were in a Benton County parking lot when they discovered a bat, which later tested positive for the rabies virus. This case serves as a strong reminder to report all suspicious interactions between pets and wildlife to a veterinarian and keep pets vaccinated against rabies.
The Benton County bat tested positive for rabies on December 27, 2019. On December 23, the bat was found on the ground between two cars parked in a lot outside an apartment building. A man and his son captured the bat with a magazine and plastic container, avoiding direct contact. View this video from the Minnesota Department of Health for other safe methods of capture.
Once secured, they took the bat to a nearby wildlife rehabilitation facility. On December 24, the bat bit a technician at the facility. The bat began exhibiting neurologic signs and died on December 26.
The Minnesota Department of Health recommended post exposure prophylaxis for the technician bitten by the bat. The Minnesota Board of Animal Health chose not to conduct an investigation because there were no domestic animals reported in the area where the bat was found.
If you have questions about suspected or confirmed rabies exposure to domestic animals call 651-201-6808.
If you have questions concerning rabies exposure in people, please contact the Minnesota Department of Health at 651-201-5414.
All dogs, cats, ferrets, and horses should be currently vaccinated against the rabies virus. In the event an animal is exposed or potentially exposed, pets should receive a rabies vaccination booster within 96 hours of exposure.