A bat found in Brantford has tested positive for rabies and health officials are investigating a potential human exposure.
The Brant County Health Unit (BCHU) says this is the first suspected human exposure to rabies in the area.
One person believed to have been bitten is reportedly not showing symptoms and is receiving rabies post-exposure treatment.
Earlier this month Ontario reported the first human case of contracted rabies since 1967 after being exposed in the Timiskaming region.
The health unit says the risk of rabies in the province remains low but it is crucial to stay cautious.
The rabies virus causes inflammation of the spinal cord and brain and can be deadly if not treated. Vaccination before symptoms appear is highly effective in combating the virus.
Health unit officials say there has never been a documented case of human-to-human spread rabies.
Residents are advised to avoid touching wild animals, to keep pets vaccinated and to call animal services at 311 if a bat is found indoors.
With files from The Canadian Press.
