Rabid bat confirmed in Douglas County, first positive case of 2026
KPIC • • health
Key Points:
- A bat in Douglas County tested positive for rabies, marking the county’s first confirmed case of 2026 and the fourth in Oregon this year; the last bat rabies case in Douglas County was in 2021.
- The bat was tested after being brought in by a concerned resident, who is advised to seek post-exposure care according to Oregon Health Authority guidelines.
- County officials urge residents to avoid contact with bats and other wildlife, keep pets vaccinated against rabies, and seek immediate medical attention if bitten by an animal.
- Sick bats may display unusual behavior such as being unable to fly or lying on the ground, and residents encountering such animals should not touch them but contact local wildlife authorities for assistance.
- Additional safety tips include avoiding contact with bats seen during daylight, not approaching wounded or wild animals, and refraining from feeding or disturbing wildlife or their young.