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QUINCY, ILL. -- Illinois health officials are warning residents to avoid contact with bats as they start becoming more active during this time of year.

Bats are the primary carrier of rabies in Illinois. Thirteen bats and one bovine have tested positive for rabies already this year.

It's important to remember that you should never try to approach or catch a bat, or any wild animal, in your home. Instead, call your local animal control agency for its recommendations.

In 2010, 117 bats tested positive for rabies in Illinois. Rabies is a virus that affects the nervous system of humans and other mammals. Humans can get rabies after being bitten by an infected animal. Rabies can also be contracted when saliva from a rabid animal gets directly into the eyes, nose, mouth or a wound.

Without preventive treatment, rabies is a fatal disease. If you have been bitten or exposed to a bat, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment with rabies immune globulin and a vaccine series must begin immediately.

The following tips can help prevent the spread of rabies:

• Be a responsible pet owner. Keep vaccinations up-to-date for all dogs, cats and ferrets.

• Seek immediate veterinary assistance for your pet if your pet is bitten by a wild animal or exposed to a bat.

• Call the local animal control agency to remove stray animals in your neighborhood.

• Do not handle, feed or unintentionally attract wild animals with open garbage cans or litter.

• Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home. Do not try to nurse sick animals to health. Call animal control or an animal rescue agency for assistance.

• Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly.

• Maintain homes and other buildings so bats cannot gain entry.

• If a bat is in your home, do not release the bat outdoors until after speaking with animal control or public health officials. If you are able to do so without putting yourself at risk for physical contact or being bitten, try to cover the bat with a large can or bucket, and close the door to the room.