Second Case of a Bat with Rabies in Brantford Brant
Brantford, 11.08.2025
Grand Erie Public Health has confirmed the second case of rabies in Brant County this year after another bat tested positive for the deadly virus. While the location of the infected bat has not been disclosed, officials say there was no known contact with humans in this latest case.
The first rabies-positive bat in Brant County was reported in June. In that incident, one person had contact with the animal and required a full course of post-exposure rabies treatment and a series of vaccines.
"The presence of a rabies-positive bat in our community serves as an important reminder to avoid contact with or handling wild animals." said Dr. Jason Malenfant, acting medical officer of health for Grand Erie Public Health.
Why Bats with Rabies is Serious
Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the nervous system and can be transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, including bats, foxes, raccoons, and skunks. Early symptoms may include fever, fatigue, headaches, anxiety, or tingling in the affected area. Without treatment, the disease progresses quickly, leading to confusion, seizures, hallucinations, and in some cases, a fear of water or fresh air. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal within 7 to 14 days.
Brant County has seen first-hand how devastating rabies can be. In 2024, a child in the area died after coming into contact with a rabid bat, Ontario's first domestic human rabies case since 1967.
Public Health Safety Reminders
Grand Erie Public Health recommends the following steps to prevent rabies exposure:
-
Avoid touching or feeding wild animals, even if they appear healthy.
-
Keep pets and livestock up-to-date on rabies vaccinations.
-
If you find a bat in your home, do not attempt to capture or move it yourself.
-
Call animal services at 311 or a licensed wildlife removal company for assistance.
-
If bitten or scratched by a wild animal, wash the wound with soap and water immediately, seek urgent medical care, and report the incident to public health.
With two confirmed rabies cases in Brant County in 2025, the message is clear: avoid contact with wildlife, keep vaccinations up to date, and always use professionals for safe bat removal.
Don't Handle Bats Yourself – Call a Professional
Bats are one of the primary carriers of rabies in Ontario. If you suspect bats are living in your home or attic, it's critical to avoid any direct contact and bring in trained experts who can remove them safely and humanely.
For professional bat removal services in Brantford, contact Ontario Wildlife Removal. Their team uses safe, humane methods to evict bats, seal entry points, and prevent them from returning protecting your family from the risks of rabies exposure.
