A rabid bat was found Tuesday in Flossmoor, according to an alert from the Cook County Department of Animal Control.
The bat was discovered on Aug. 16 in the vicinity of the 3000 block of Bob O Link Road. It was submitted to the Illinois State Public Health Laboratory and tested positive for rabies.
Donna Alexander, administrator of the animal control department, said Wednesday that anyone who is exposed to or bitten by a bat should contact their doctor.
Residents should keep their dogs, cats and other pets on a leash when out of their homes. If animals do not have an up-to-date rabies vaccination, they should make sure their pet receives the proper inoculation immediately, Alexander said.
Persons are advised to not handle any bats, skunks or other wild animals. Anyone who finds a dead bat or skunk on their property or roadway should contact the department of animal control at 708-974-6140.