Rabies Positive Bat Press Release

July 6, 2016

For Immediate Release

Cynthia Bodendein RN MSN

Health Director

The Sauk County Health Department has been notified of a rabies positive bat that was submitted from the Baraboo Police Department on Tuesday July 5^th. The bat was found on the Baraboo River Walk on Sunday July 3^rd. The police were notified by an individual after their dog bit the bat.

Rabies is a contagious virus that is spread through the saliva of the infected animal. The Health Department is requesting that the owner of the dog involved contact the Health Department immediately. It is important that the health department speak to the owners of the dog so that the animal and individuals involved can be assessed for potential exposure. The dog will not have to be euthanized but will need to be examined by a veterinarian. Treatment is available and must be administered as soon as possible after exposure.

Contact Sauk County Health Department at 608-355-3290 or after hours at 1 (800) 533-5692