Never touch a bat: What you need to know about bats and rabies

July 30, 2026.Reading time 9 minutes.

Any person or animal that touched or had contact with the bat or its saliva could be at risk of getting rabies. If you see a bat, don’t touch it! Bats lying on the ground, flying during daytime, making a lot of noise, or otherwise acting sick are more likely to have rabies.

Rabid bat found in Seattle near the University of Washington

July 17, 2026.Reading time 6 minutes.

A rabid bat was found in Seattle on July 15, 2026, on the sidewalk on University Way Northeast, between NE 41st and NE 42nd streets. This is near Parrington Lawn, on the University of Washington campus, and is a busy area with many businesses. Anyone who might have had physical contact with this bat (even if not bitten) could be at risk and should seek medical evaluation immediately or call Public Health at 206-296-4774 to determine if rabies preventative treatment is necessary.

Rabid bat found in Seattle near Washington Park Arboretum

September 25, 2025.Reading time 6 minutes.

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 and rabies in King County

September 2, 2025.Reading time 9 minutes.

una foto de un murciélagos volando en la noche

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.

Rabid bat found in Renton

August 31, 2024.Reading time 6 minutes.

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.

Rabid bat found in King County: What you should know to protect yourself, your family, and your pets

June 13, 2023.Reading time 7 minutes.

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.