Toni Preckwinkle President at Cook County Government | Ballotpedia
Toni Preckwinkle President at Cook County Government | Ballotpedia
The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control (ARC) has launched an interactive map showing locations where rabid bats have been discovered in the county this year. The initiative, which coincides with Halloween, aims to increase awareness about rabies prevention. As of now, seven rabid bats have been identified.
Dr. Mamadou Diakhate, DVM, ARC Administrator, emphasized the importance of vaccinations for pets: “Rabies is a completely preventable disease and is always fatal to unvaccinated pets. Ensuring your dogs and cats are current on rabies and other vaccinations is critical for their health and yours.” He noted that many of these bats were found inside homes, posing a risk even to indoor pets.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that annually 60 to 70 dogs and 250 cats contract rabies. To combat this, ARC offers low-cost or free Partners in Prevention clinics providing rabies vaccines and microchips for pets across the county. Over 50 clinics have been held this year, vaccinating more than 5,000 pets against rabies and administering approximately 3,000 microchips.
Dr. Diakhate warns that untreated rabies is nearly always fatal in humans. The virus spreads through saliva from bites or scratches by infected animals. He advises those who have had contact with wildlife or unfamiliar animals to consult healthcare professionals regarding potential risks.
Despite their role as carriers of rabies, bats contribute significantly to the ecosystem by consuming insects like mosquitoes. Chris Anchor from the Forest Preserves of Cook County stated: “Healthy bat populations reflect a complex ecosystem that provides the food and habitat they need.” The Forest Preserves has documented nine bat species in Cook County over four decades.
Cook County’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Department developed the map using data from ARC. Wig Ingente, GIS program coordinator remarked: "Using GIS to create a themed interactive map for residents is an incredibly helpful way to display the positive rabies cases.”
For more information on preventing rabies, visit www.cookcountyil.gov/service/rabies-prevention.
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