Rabies Confirmed in Two Bats Found in Wellesley Township

Public health urges caution amid summer spike in bat activity

Two bats in nearby Wellesley Township have tested positive for rabies, according to Region of Waterloo Public Health and Paramedic Services. While the discovery isn’t unusual for the time of year, the proximity of these cases serves as a timely reminder for residents in Guelph and surrounding areas to take extra care when it comes to wildlife.

“Rabies continues to circulate in bat populations in Ontario,” public health officials said in a notice issued this week. “Summer means more bat activity and more potential for human or pet exposure.”

Rabies is a deadly virus that can affect all warm-blooded mammals, including humans. In Ontario, bats are the most common source of rabies exposure, and infected animals can pass the virus through bites or scratches—even if those injuries are not always noticeable.

While the cases were confirmed in Wellesley Township, less than an hour from Guelph, public health officials stress that rabies can appear anywhere in southern Ontario. “It’s important to avoid contact with bats or other wild animals, and to ensure pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations,” the Region’s statement added.

How to protect yourself and your pets:

• Never touch a bat or wild animal—even if it appears dead.
• Contact your local public health unit if you or your pet may have been exposed.
• Make sure dogs and cats (including indoor pets) are vaccinated against rabies.
• Bat-proof your home to prevent them from entering living spaces.
• Report unusual animal behaviour to local authorities.

If you find a bat inside your home and suspect contact with a person or pet, call Public Health immediately. In Guelph and Wellington County, that’s Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health at 1-800-265-7293.

For more information and prevention tips, visit:
www.regionofwaterloo.ca/rabies