The Huron Perth Public Health unit is urging people to take precautions to prevent exposure to bats after a Stratford resident was bitten by one that has rabies.
Residents are asked to call public health if there has been contact with a bat.
"If you are bitten or scratched by a bat, or if infectious material (such as saliva) from a bat gets into your eyes, nose, or a wound, wash the affected area thoroughly and seek immediate medical attention,” said Public Health Inspector Patrick Landry.
“If you awaken to find a bat in your room, a child’s room, or the room of another household member, call HPPH.”
Overall, one to three per cent of Ontario's bat population is infected with rabies, which is a viral disease that is fatal to humans.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency reports that there were five bats with rabies identified so far this year in Ontario.