Bat Found in Chelan County Tested Positive for Rabies

Safety tips from the Chelan-Douglas Health District

information released

Chelan-Douglas Health District (CDHD) confirms that a bat submitted to the Washington State Public Health Laboratory (WAPHL) for testing was confirmed to be positive for rabies on August 21, 2024. Contact exposure was determined to be pet-only.

Exercise extreme caution when encountering a bat as they can carry rabies, a potentially fatal disease. Chelan Douglas Health District would like to share important precautions to take when encountering bats:

Avoid Direct Contact:

Never handle a bat directly. If you find a bat on the ground or in your home, do not attempt to pick it up.

Maintain a safe distance. Observe bats from a distance to appreciate their natural behavior without putting yourself at risk.

Secure Your Home:

Seal entry points. Check and seal your home for any gaps or holes where bats might enter, such as chimneys, vents, or attic spaces.

Educate yourself:

Learn about bats. Learning about bat behavior can help protect you and your loved ones while respecting their natural living environment. Did you know that only 3-10% of bats submitted for testing are found to be rabid.

If Bitten:

Seek medical attention immediately. If you are bitten or scratched by a bat, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

One of the more common bats found in Washington State. Photo for illustrative purposes only.

Bats are important to wildlife because they can help control insect populations. To learn more about bats, the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife has a webpage on Living with wildlife: Bats | Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife or visit Rabies Activity in Washington | Washington State Department of Health if you would like to learn more about rabies activity in Washington. Chelan-Douglas Public Health has information about rabies here.

Additionally, it is required by Washington State Law (WAC 246-100-197) to vaccinate your pets with the rabies vaccine. Contact your local veterinarian if you believe your pet was in contact with a bat.