Rabid bat found in Columbia County

DAYTON–The Columbia County Health Department received notification from the Washington State Public Health Laboratory of a bat presumed to have rabies on June 28. There was human exposure to this bat. The exposed person is undergoing preventative treatment from a healthcare provider.

This is the first positive case of rabies in a bat in Columbia County for several years.

“While an estimated 1% of bats in the wild are affected with rabies, you should always be cautious around bats, as they’re the primary source of rabies in Washington State,” said Dr. Bob Lutz, Eastern Washington’s Regional Medical Officer. Since 1987, only five rabid domestic, terrestrial animals have been identified, three with confirmed bat variant virus and two unknown.

Rabies is a disease caused by a virus carried in saliva and spread through animal bites or scratches. People exposed to a potentially rabid animal can prevent rabies by seeking prompt medical treatment. Rabies infections almost always cause death in people who do not receive preventative treatment.

It is best practice that all dogs, cats, and ferrets receive a rabies vaccination on a regular basis and bats not handled, even if they are dead. Rabies, while rare, is deadly though we have effective prevention methods available. Immediately wash any animal bite with soap and water. Contact your health care provider and Columbia County Health Department to investigate the potential for rabies exposure, determine the need for treatment and help to decide if the animal needs tested for rabies. Post-exposure treatment is available to those exposed to a rabid animal to prevent disease, but must be administered promptly after exposure.