CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — The Ross County Health District has confirmed a rabies case in a bat discovered in Liberty Township, urging residents across southern Ohio to take precautions to protect themselves, their families, and their pets.
The infected bat was found on May 20, 2026, in Liberty Township. The Ohio Department of Health laboratory tested the animal and confirmed it positive for rabies the following day. Two domestic dogs were exposed to the bat, though no human exposures have been reported.
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that attacks the central nervous system. It spreads primarily through the saliva of an infected animal, usually via a bite or scratch that breaks the skin. In rare cases, transmission can occur if saliva contacts the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Health officials note that bats represent a higher risk for rabies in Ross County compared to other wildlife, such as raccoons, skunks, foxes, or coyotes. Exposures can happen subtly, including waking up to a bat in the bedroom, finding one near a child, or direct contact.
Safety Recommendations for Residents
The Ross County Health District advises the following steps:
• Keep cats and dogs current on rabies vaccinations, the most effective protection.
• Avoid handling live or dead bats or other wildlife. Contact a licensed professional for bat removal if they are in your home.
• Seek immediate medical attention at an emergency room if you suspect exposure to a bat.
• If capturing a bat for testing, avoid damaging its head, as brain tissue is needed for analysis. Contact the Ross County Health District Environmental Health Division at 740-775-1158 for guidance.
This case follows a recent low-cost rabies vaccination clinic held on May 16, 2026, at Yoctangee Park in Chillicothe, where 26 pets received vaccines. A second clinic is planned for fall 2026.
Broader Context in Southern Ohio
Bats are the most common source of rabies exposure in Ohio. As of mid-May 2026, several other counties have reported bat rabies cases earlier in the year, highlighting the need for vigilance across the region.
For more information, visit rosscountyhealth.org or contact the Ross County Health District Environmental Health Division.
