A rabid bat was found in Seattle on September 23, 2025 near Washington Park Arboreteum. Anyone who might have had contact with this bat (even if not bitten) could be at risk and should seek medical evaluation immediately or call Public Health – Seattle & King County.
Bats can be infected with rabies and can spread that infection to humans who have bare skin contact with bats or bat saliva. If you had contact with a bat, or even woke up in a room with a bat inside, report the exposure to Public Health at: 206-296-4774. You should also call your medical provider immediately.
A rabid bat was found in Renton at 415 Rainier Ave N. on August 29, 2024. If you or someone you know had any contact with a bat near this area, seek medical evaluation immediately or contact Public Health – Seattle & King County.
An eastern King County resident and their unvaccinated puppy were exposed to rabies after potentially coming in contact with a bat in the bushes near their home. The bat was collected and sent to the Washington State Public Health Lab where it tested positive for rabies. In situations like these, Public Health will make recommendations for potentially exposed humans and animals.
A rabid bat was found by the sidewalk adjacent to the Duwamish Head Condominiums (1140 Alki Ave SW) on September 18 – 19, 2022, near Alki Beach Pier in West Seattle. If you or someone you know had any contact with a bat near this area, seek medical evaluation immediately or contact Public Health – Seattle & King County.
As the weather warms up in King County, bats come out of hibernation, which means a big increase in human-bat interactions compared to other times of year. Bats that are infected with rabies can spread the infection to humans who have bare skin contact with bats or bat saliva.