Bats spark rabies scare among UGA students, vaccine shots administered

WSB-TV • March 31, 2026 • general

Key Points:

Several University of Georgia students in Athens are receiving rabies vaccine shots after exposure to bats in their off-campus apartments, which can carry rabies and other dangerous diseases.
The students discovered multiple bats in their apartment since January, leading to fear and disruption, including one student receiving painful antibody injections after a possible bite.
The apartment management promptly removed the bats, engaged wildlife specialists, and offered alternative accommodations and hotel reimbursements, emphasizing resident health and safety.
Students are urging better communication from maintenance about bat removals and want compensation for motel costs due to the bat infestation and associated health risks.