Brantford Daycare Reopens After Rabid Bat Incident; Urgent Health Alert

BREAKING: Creative Minds Daycare in Brantford, Ontario, has officially reopened following a temporary closure due to the discovery of a rabid bat found by a child on August 11. This urgent situation unfolded when a child handed the dead bat to a worker during morning playtime, prompting immediate action from daycare officials.

The daycare contacted local health authorities, and within two days, the bat tested positive for the rabies virus. In swift response, the daycare closed its doors to ensure the safety of its approximately 145 children and to allow for a thorough investigation by Grand Erie Public Health and a wildlife management company.

Public health officials confirmed the reopening on Sunday night, stating that all necessary health and safety measures had been complied with. “A Grand Erie Public Health inspector performed a thorough investigation of the facility, and we can confirm the operator has fully complied with the requirements, including pest control intervention and sanitation,” said spokesperson Lindsay English in an official statement.

The discovery of the rabid bat raised significant health concerns, especially following a tragic incident last year when a child in the Brantford area died from rabies after contact with a bat—the first domestically acquired case in Ontario since 1967. Authorities have advised that rabies can be fatal if not treated before symptoms appear, emphasizing the importance of immediate medical attention for those who may have come into contact with the virus.

Last week, public health officials reported that two individuals were exposed to the rabid bat and recommended they receive post-exposure prophylaxis, a critical treatment to prevent infection.

While the daycare’s swift closure was necessary for safety, some parents expressed frustration over the communication regarding the incident. Reports surfaced that a child and teacher had touched the bat before the daycare management informed parents. Vicki McNabb, the daycare owner, and Laura Bailey, who assists with communication, acknowledged the need for better communication but stated that verifying details was paramount before sharing information.

Bailey clarified her previous comments about parental support, stating, “I thought 99.9 percent of parents supported how the daycare responded.” She later adjusted this figure, emphasizing that the majority of parents have been supportive. “I know the team at Creative Minds would welcome any feedback from families to address concerns and learn from this situation,” Bailey added.

As the daycare reopens, parents are urged to remain vigilant about their children’s health and to seek medical advice if they have concerns. The situation remains a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by wildlife and the importance of rapid public health responses in such emergencies.

Stay tuned for further updates as more information becomes available on this developing story.