EATON COUNTY, Mich. – Michigan has its first confirmed case of rabies in 2026 -- a bat found in Eaton County.
According to the Barry-Eaton District Health Department, the bat was discovered in Charlotte. It is the first confirmed animal rabies case this year.
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Rabies is a viral disease most commonly transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Once symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal.
There were 42 confirmed rabies-positive animal cases in Michigan last year. They were all bats.
What are the symptoms of rabies in a person?
Symptoms of rabies in people may begin with fever, headache, general weakness, and discomfort. A prickling or itching sensation at the bite site is also common and can last for days.
As the disease progresses, neurological symptoms may develop, including difficulty sleeping, anxiety, confusion, hallucinations, agitation, partial paralysis, difficulty swallowing, and hydrophobia (fear of water).
What are the symptoms of rabies in an animal?
Animals infected with rabies may exhibit unusual or erratic behavior. Early signs include fever, lethargy, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
Later symptoms in animals can include weakness, difficulty walking, paralysis, seizures, difficulty swallowing, excessive salivation, abnormal behavior, and aggression.
What is the treatment for rabies?
Treatment to prevent rabies after potential exposure involves a series of injections known as Rabies Postexposure Prophylaxis.
People who have never been vaccinated against rabies require both rabies immune globulin (HRIG) and the rabies vaccine. Those previously vaccinated need only the vaccine.
Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal, and treatment is limited to supportive care.
The state of Michigan has more information about rabies available online.