AI Image
Rabid bats are on the rise in Kansas City
KSHB 41 Kansas City • • health
Key Points:
- The Kansas City Health Department has reported an increase in human exposure to bats and a rise in rabid bats testing positive for rabies, prompting public health warnings and precautions.
- Rabies is 100% fatal without treatment, but timely vaccination and immunoglobulin injections after exposure can save lives; however, the initial treatment costs can be very high, with emergency room charges reaching over $40,000 before insurance.
- In 2026, the KCMO Health Department administered 52% more rabies vaccinations compared to 2025 and reported seven rabid bats, the highest number in over a decade.
- The health department offers resources to reduce vaccination costs for follow-up doses and provides free animal control services to capture bats for testing, which can prevent unnecessary treatments if the bat tests negative.
- Officials urge residents to prevent bats from entering homes, seek expert help to remove bats, and promptly contact health authorities after potential exposure to assess rabies risk and begin treatment if needed.
