Bat Tests Positive for Rabies in the Village of Ilion

Herkimer County Public Health received results on Thursday, September 24^th, 2026, that a bat from the Village of Ilion has tested positive for rabies.

The bat was captured in a residence and was sent for testing at Wadsworth State Labs by Public Health on September 23^rd.

The public can protect themselves and family pets from rabies by practicing the following:

1. 1. 1. 1. Vaccinate your pets against rabies.
         2. Spay or neuter all pets to reduce the number of strays.
         3. Do not feed strays or touch unknown animals, wild or domestic.

Herkimer County Public Health would like to remind the public to please check your pets’ rabies vaccination records to make sure that they are up to date.  If they are not up to date, make an appointment with their vet or Public Health as soon as possible to have them vaccinated against rabies. Remember, pets of all ages can contract rabies, even if they live strictly indoors. 

If a bat is found in your home, do not let it go, and call Public Health for guidance. If there is a possibility it had contact with a person or an animal in the house, call Public Health, and we will make arrangements to have the bat tested.

Please call Public Health at 315-867-1176 if you have any questions or concerns. Please visit our website www.herkimercounty.org.