On Tuesday September 22nd, the Hancock County Health Department confirmed that a bat from the Chester area has tested positive for the Rabies virus. As a reminder, all pet owners are required to have their pets vaccinated, should they come in contact with a rabid animal. Rabies is a fatal virus, should you encounter an animal acting strangely, please contact the, the Hancock County Dog Warden at 304-564-3311 Ext. 292 or the Health Department at 304-564-3343. Residents should be cautious if they are outside and wild animals are present.