Bats Test Positive for Rabies Across the U.S.—Health Officials Issue Warning

Health officials in multiple states are warning residents to avoid contact with bats after several have tested positive for rabies in recent weeks.

Rabies is a deadly virus that spreads through bites or saliva exposure, and even minor contact can be dangerous. Experts say anyone who may have been bitten—or whose pet had contact with a bat—should seek medical attention immediately.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bats are one of the most common sources of rabies exposure in the United States. An estimated 60,000 people receive treatment each year after potential exposure.

Here are some of the latest reported cases:

California

A bat at Fullerton College in Orange County tested positive for rabies after being captured on April 17.

Officials warn, "If you had physical contact with the bat, call the OC Health Care Agency’s Communicable Disease Control Division at 714-834-8180 during or after business hours to determine the risk for rabies," in a news release.

Missouri

A bat found inside a home in Kirkwood tested positive, according to local reports.

“While the overall risk to the public remains low, a bat testing positive for rabies serves as an important reminder to avoid contact with wildlife and to keep pets up to date on their rabies vaccinations,” said Dr. Kanika Cunningham, Director of the Saint Louis County Department of Public Health, in a news release.

Rhode Island

At least six wild animals, including raccoons in Providence County, have recently tested positive, prompting a public health alert. If Exposed: Wash wounds immediately with soap and water, seek medical attention, and report to local animal control or the Rhode Island Department of Health (401-222-2577).

Ohio

Officials confirmed a rabid bat in Warren County.

New Jersey

Health officials in Camden County have also reported rabid bats.

Other Animals That Carry Rabies

While bats are a leading source, rabies is also commonly found in wild animals such as raccoons, foxes, and skunks. Animals that appear unusually aggressive, disoriented, or are drooling excessively should be avoided.

What Does a Bat Bite Look Like?

Bat bites look tiny, pinpricks on your skin. They may be too small to see with your naked eye.

If you are bitten or scratched, or even suspect contact with a bat, seek medical care right away. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but it is preventable with prompt treatment. The incubation period can vary between weeks and months before symptoms appear, according to the World Health Organization.

Symptoms include fever, headache, tingling, pain, or redness at the site of the bite. The CDC warns of these advanced symptoms of rabies:

• Agitation, confusion
• Hallucinations
• Difficulty swallowing
• Excessive salivation
• Hydrophobia (fear of water)
• Paralysis

How to Stay Safe

Secure trash cans around your home, and keep your pets up-to-date on vaccinations. Bats are most active at dusk and dawn, so be extra careful when outside during those times of day.