Breaking News: Urgent Warning – Rabid Bat Spotted in Chelan! Essential Information for Visitors

Chelan Douglas Health District has provided more information about a recent incident involving a rabid bat in Chelan.

A sick bat was discovered on August 24th at Lake Shore RV Park. Campers found the bat and immediately contacted public health. The bat was later confirmed to be rabid.

It is unclear how long the bat was present in the park before it was found, so Chelan Douglas Health District is urging anyone who had physical contact with any bat in the area to call their local public health district and seek immediate medical attention.

Rabies is a deadly disease for both humans and animals. However, infection and death can be prevented if appropriate medical care is received promptly after exposure to rabies.

This is the second incident of rabies-positive bat exposure in the Chelan and Douglas County area recently. Earlier this month, a pet in East Wenatchee was exposed to a rabid bat.

Bats play a crucial role in our ecosystem

To raise awareness and ensure safety, Chelan-Douglas Health District advises the following if you encounter a bat or other wildlife:

1) Observe wildlife from a distance:

• Do not touch or handle a wild animal, especially bats. Teach your children never to touch or handle bats, even if they are dead. If your children find a bat at home, school, or with a pet, they should immediately inform an adult.

2) Do not handle an injured bat:

• Contact animal control, your local public health district, or local authorities for assistance and further instructions.

3) If a bat is inside your home or any indoor space:

• Never handle a bat with your bare hands. Call your local health department for guidance on safely capturing the bat and determining if it needs to be tested for rabies.

4) Learn about bats:

5) If you are bitten or scratched by a bat:

• Seek immediate medical attention. Thoroughly wash the wound with soap and water, and seek medical help as soon as possible.

Chelan-Douglas Health District advises the public to leave bats alone if they are outside in the open. For more information on bat safety, you can refer to the “Don’t Touch Bats Poster” provided by the Washington State Department of Health. Additionally, you can protect your living space from bats by bat-proofing your home. To learn more about rabies, please visit the Rabies webpage on the Chelan Douglas Health District’s website.