Rabies Alert: Bats Invade Delaware County Homes

Young bats learning to fly are leading to unexpected encounters across Delaware County, Pennsylvania, with animals appearing in homes and offices. Health officials are emphasizing the importance of taking bat encounters seriously, as these creatures can carry rabies.

Lora Werner, director of the Delaware County Health Department, reported 75 bat exposures in the county this year, noting that 40% of these incidents happened in the past month. Out of 37 bats tested, two were found to be positive for rabies, a condition Werner described as serious and requiring post-exposure prophylaxis.

While acknowledging the health concerns, Stephanie Stronsick, founder of Pennsylvania Bat Conservation and Rehabilitation, also highlighted bats' ecological importance. They act as natural pest controllers, consuming insects harmful to agriculture and forests. Stronsick advises against trying to capture bats that enter homes, recommending instead to open windows and doors to guide them out or to contact a licensed wildlife removal service.