A bat found in North Kitsap recently tested positive for rabies, per the Kitsap Public Health District.

A person picked the bat up outdoors and took it to a local wildlife shelter, which contacted KPHD. The positive test is a reminder to avoid touching bats and to call a healthcare provider if you do have contact with one. KPHD health officer Dr. Gib Morrow said, “Contact a health professional and catch the animal for testing if you can. It could save your life.”

Rabies is a deadly disease. The virus is carried in the saliva of infected animals and spread by bites and scratches. “Rabies in people is very rare and preventable,” the news release states. “People who do not get preventative treatment and get sick from rabies almost always die. There is no cure for rabies after the illness starts.”

Only a small percentage of bats carry rabies, but rabid bats are reported in Washington every year. Seven bats from Kitsap have been tested for rabies in 2024, with one positive result. Take these same precautions if you are unsure if a person touched a bat (for example, if you find a bat in a room where a person was sleeping or in a room with a young child).

• Capture the bat for rabies testing if possible. Wear gloves. Keep the bat in a container.
• Check yourself for bites and scratches. Bats have tiny teeth and claws and can be hard to see.
• Wash the bite, scratch, or contact area immediately with soap and water for at least 10 minutes.
• Call your healthcare provider and/or KPHD at 360-728-2235. Health professionals may recommend you get treatment to prevent rabies.
• If you think your pet has had contact with a bat, call your veterinarian.