Rabid bat found at park in Woodinville

WOODINVILLE, Wash. — A rabid bat was found at Hollywood Hills Equestrian Park in Woodinville, Washington on June 24, according to officials with Public Health – Seattle & King County.

Multiple people first noticed the bat near the arena seating in the park. The group safely captured the the bat and contacted animal control.

Animal control officials took the bat to a local wildlife center for evaluation and potential rehabilitation. While at the wildlife center, the bat "developed changes in behavior that suggested rabies," according to public health officials.

The bat was euthanized on July 5, and on July 6 the bat tested positive for rabies at the Washington State Public Health Laboratory.

Health officials say anyone who touched or had contact with the bat or its saliva could be at risk of getting rabies.

"Rabies is treatable if caught before symptoms appear, so identifying anyone who has had contact as soon as possible is important," said Dr. Jeff Duchin, Health Officer for Public Health – Seattle & King County. "Contact includes touching a bat, being bitten, scratched, or any other bare skin contact with a bat or its saliva."

Click here for more information from Public Health - Seattle & King County on bats and rabies.

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