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The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control (ARC) has introduced an interactive map to show where rabid bats have been found in the county this year. Three bats that tested positive for rabies have been identified so far in 2025. The release of the map is timed with Halloween to help raise awareness about rabies prevention.
“Rabies is a completely preventable disease and is always fatal to unvaccinated pets,” said ARC Administrator Dr. Mamadou Diakhate, DVM. “Ensuring your dogs and cats are current on rabies vaccinations and other vaccinations is critical to their health and yours.”
Dr. Diakhate explained that these infected bats are often discovered inside homes, meaning even pets that stay indoors can be at risk of exposure. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that annually about 60 to 70 dogs and 250 cats contract rabies across the country.
The Forest Preserves of Cook County has conducted bat research for over forty years, identifying nine species within the county. Roughly half of these bat species form large colonies, while others live alone or in small family groups among trees and shrubs.
Cook County’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Department developed the new map using data provided by ARC. Wig Ingente, GIS program coordinator, stated: "A GIS map helps turn statistics into a story. We're using this technology to transform abstract health warnings into a tangible, visual tool that helps residents instantly understand the real-world risk in their own neighborhoods."
To support rabies prevention efforts, ARC organizes low-cost or free Partners in Prevention clinics offering vaccines and microchips for pets throughout Cook County. This year, more than 50 clinics have been held, vaccinating over 6,000 pets against rabies and providing approximately 3,000 microchips.
Residents are advised not to handle wild animals such as bats. Bats play an important ecological role by eating insects like mosquitoes; a single little brown bat can consume half its body weight in insects each night.
Chris Anchor, senior wildlife biologist for the Forest Preserves of Cook County, emphasized the importance of healthy bat populations: “Bats are amazing flying mammals that act as important bio monitors, helping to indicate the health of our environment.”
Rabies is almost always fatal to humans if untreated. The virus spreads through saliva when an infected animal bites or scratches another animal or person. The CDC recommends anyone who has had contact with wildlife or unfamiliar animals—especially if bitten or scratched—consult a healthcare provider to assess their risk.
More information about rabies prevention can be found at www.cookcountyil.gov/service/rabies-prevention.
