Rabies detected in bats across Ionia and Muskegon counties

Health officials in Ionia and Muskegon counties announced that bats tested positive for rabies, marking the first cases in those counties this year.

State data show 50 rabies cases across Michigan in 2026, including bats in Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Jackson, and Livingston counties. No human cases have been reported.

Officials note that exposure risk is highest from May through September, urging residents to avoid contact with bats and keep them out of homes, and to vaccinate pets.

Ionia County Health Department can be reached at 616-527-5341, while Muskegon County health department is available at 231-724-1228 or [email protected].

Read the full story at wlns.com.