Inyo County Bat Tests Positive for Rabies

Inyo County HHS, Public Health would like to remind visitors and residents not to touch, handle, or feed wildlife. Three (3) bats in Inyo County have been secured and tested positive  for rabies since April 2023.

On October 6, 2023, Inyo County Animal Control received a report that a bat was seen  behaving strangely in an area approximately 10 miles south of Bishop. It was reported to have  been flying and diving towards people. On October 10, 2023, Inyo County Public Health was  notified that a person who had contact with the bat noticed a bite later in the day and started  treatment. The bat was sent to the California Department of Public Health for testing by Inyo  County Animal Control. On October 10, 2023, the results of the bat were returned positive for rabies. Inyo County Public Health has been in contact with the person receiving treatment and will continue to provide case management until the series is complete.

Anyone who may have had contact with this bat should contact Inyo County Health  Department for clinical guidance at 760-873-7868.

Rabies is usually fatal unless treated before symptoms begin. Humans can get rabies through contact with an infected animal’s saliva, typically through a bite or scratch. Any mammal can carry rabies. People should be especially concerned when an animal is behaving aggressively or does not show a normal fear of humans.

How to stay safe around wildlife 

• Never approach, touch, feed, or pick up a wild animal. Please enjoy wildlife from a safe distance.
• Do not approach if you see sick, dead, or erratically behaving wildlife.
• Humans and pets should avoid contact with bats. Make every effort to avoid a bat that is acting erratic during the daylight hours.
• Make your property unattractive to wild animals. Cap chimneys, screen windows, and seal off any openings in attics, under porches, and in basements.
• Make sure all pets are up to date with rabies vaccines.
• Consult with your doctor immediately in the event you have been in contact with an animal thought to be rabid.

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Related:

Death Valley Park rangers warn about interacting with wildlife; Woman bit by rabid bat

Bishop Bat Tests Positive for Rabies

News Staff