The Health Department is urging residents to avoid bats. During fall, people may encounter bats more frequently since some bats are migrating and others are looking for winter quarters, which may be people’s attics. 

Thus far this year, the Health Department has submitted 38 bats for testing and three tested positive for rabies. This finding is similar to previous years as about 4% of Lake County bats tested carry rabies on average.The Health Department is urging anyone who has direct contact with a bat or notices a bat acting in an unusual manner, such as flying in daylight or lying on the ground or in your home, to contact Animal Care and Control at: (847) 377-4700.

While bats have mainly beneficial effects, with some species able to eat up to 600 insects in an hour, they are also the only animals that have tested positive for rabies in Lake County. 

The Health Department's Crisis Care Program provides a variety of services to individuals facing a crisis. A mental health crisis could include overwhelming depression, thoughts of suicide, poor concentration, disturbing thoughts, or feeling out of control. When these problems come on suddenly, or take a noticeable turn for the worse and interfere with a person’s ability to deal with everyday life, this can be considered a crisis.

This program offers a respite service where people in crisis can stay for approximately one to two weeks. While there, they attend daily groups to help them find more effective ways to cope with their symptoms or situation, and recover from their crisis.

Additionally, crisis counselors are available 24 hours a day to speak by phone. The number is: 847- 377-8088. You do not have to give your name when you call. We can help guide you through difficult times, manage stress, anxiety and depression, and cope with longer-term difficulties. Information and referrals to other Health Department programs are also available.

The Health Department is encouraging residents to get a flu vaccine this year and every year. During last year's flu season, two deaths and 31 intensive care unit admissions were associated with complications brought on by influenza in Lake County.

A flu vaccine not only protects you, but those around you.  Influenza is a respiratory illness that is highly contagious and it can take a severe toll on an individual’s health, affecting work, school or recreational opportunities.

The Health Department is offering the flu vaccine by appointment at the Immunizations Clinic, 2303 Dodge Avenue in Waukegan. To make an appointment, call:
(847) 377-8470. The vaccine is also available at sites throughout the county. To find a site near you, visit: flushot.healthmap.org.