News

Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) has confirmed that a bat found at Creative Minds Daycare in Brantford tested positive for rabies, following test results received on August 13. Parents and caregivers were promptly informed and provided with information on post-exposure precautions through a letter sent home.

GEPH continues to work closely with the daycare. At this point in the investigation all individuals who had direct contact with the bat have been identified and contacted by public health and have been advised to receive post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent rabies infection.

Out of an abundance of caution, while the GEPH investigation is underway, Creative Minds Daycare will remain closed until the facility has been fully inspected and it is confirmed that no additional bats are present. The daycare will reopen once GEPH’s investigation is complete, and the premises are deemed safe for regular operations.

While the risk of encountering an infected animal and contracting rabies in Ontario remains low, rabies is a serious viral infection that can be fatal if not treated before symptoms begin. It is transmitted when the virus enters a bite wound, open cut, or mucous membrane (such as the eyes or mouth) from the saliva or mucus of an infected animal.

Wild animals such as foxes, raccoons, skunks, and bats can carry and spread rabies. Even small bites or scratches—sometimes too small to see—can transmit the virus.

Tips to reduce rabies risk:

• Avoid touching, approaching, or feeding wild or unknown animals, even if they appear healthy.
• Ensure pets and livestock are up to date on rabies vaccinations.
• If you find a bat in your home, call Hillside Kennels Animal Control at 519-469-3247 or 888-469-3247. Do not attempt to remove it yourself.
• Stay away from animals that appear sick, injured, or are acting unusually.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal:

1. Wash the wound immediately with soap and water.
2. If under 18, tell an adult right away.
3. Seek medical attention immediately.
4. Report the incident to GEPH at 519-753-4937 ext. 470.

Rabies can be prevented with prompt PEP, which is highly effective when administered before symptoms appear.

For more information, visit:
www.bchu.org/rabies or www.hnhu.org/rabies

Quote(s)

“Our investigation into this incident is ongoing, and we continue to work closely with all those involved. While the risk of rabies in our region remains low, rabies is a serious illness that is fatal if untreated, but preventable with prompt medical attention. This is why we take every potential exposure seriously, act promptly to identify and follow up with anyone who may be at risk and remind everyone to avoid handling or coming into contact with wild animals.”

– Dr. Jason Malenfant, Acting Medical Officer of Health

Grand Erie Public Health

Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) is one of Ontario’s public health units. GEPH formed in January 2025 when the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit and Brant County Health Unit merged. We are dedicated to promoting and protecting the health and well-being of communities within the County of Brant, City of Brantford, Haldimand County, and Norfolk County. Our work is guided by the Health Protection and Promotion Act and the Ontario Public Health Standards, ensuring that our programs and services meet the highest standards of public health practice. We are committed to fostering healthy communities through prevention, education, and health promotion, while working in collaboration with local partners to address the unique needs of our diverse populations.

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