8/17/20 - Knox Public Health has confirmed that a bat which bit the woman who found it, was rabid. This is the third case of rabies this year, each involving bats. The bat was found when the woman was cleaning a cabin in Jefferson Township, north of Danville. She was bitten when she attempted to pick it up without wearing gloves.

The bat was successfully captured and brought to the health department for testing. The woman, who is not a Knox County resident, is currently undergoing postexposure prophylaxis. Prompt post exposure treatment is crucial; once a person shows symptoms of rabies, the fatality rate is almost 100 percent.

“It is important to try to capture a bat that has come in contact or is suspected of contact with a human being or a pet,” said Director of Environmental Health Nate Overholt, R.S. “However, it’s especially important to protect yourself when attempting to capture the bat, specifically by wearing leather gloves. Never grab a bat with your bare hands.” Once the bat is captured, it can be tested for rabies and the need for treatment determined if it came in contact with someone.” (read more)