The City of Warman says a bat carrying rabies was identified in Warman. They instruct residents that if you see a bat during daylight hours, keep your distance and contact animal control immediately.

This Sunday is World Rabies Day, and the Ministry of Health says rabies is deadly to people if they do not receive medical attention as soon as exposure happens usually due to a bite from a bat or other rabies infected wild animal.

A news release from the Ministry says in most cases, people are exposed to rabies through the saliva of an infected animal, typically when the saliva enters the body through a bite, scratch, or contact with broken skin or mucous membranes.

In Saskatchewan, rabies is most often found in skunks and bats but can be found in other wild and domestic animals. The Ministry of Health notes that seasonal bat activity has increased, leading to more human encounters in recent weeks. If you think you have been exposed to rabies flush the wound immediately with soap and water, call health line 811 and see a doctor as soon as possible.

The Ministry also advises to not touch sick or dead animals or any wild animal with your bare hands; even dead bats can carry rabies. Always wear a long-sleeved shirt and heavy gloves if handling is necessary. As well, keep your pet’s rabies vaccination up to date