Notification of Public Risk: Bats Found (Rabies Unknown) in Chelan, WA

Chelan County, WA—Two bats were retrieved from a popular condominium complex located at 60 South Lakeshore Drive in Chelan, WA on July 26, 2018. Public Health officials indicate that a child may have been exposed to one of the two bats on Tuesday, July 24th, 2018 between 5:30 and 6:00 p.m. Both of these bats are now being tested at the Washington State Public Health Lab. It is unknown if anyone else, or any pets, came in touch or were exposed to either of these bats.

Chelan-Douglas Health District asks that you contact your local health jurisdiction if you or someone you know (or any pets), came in contact with either of these bats. For any Chelan-Douglas residents, please call 509-886-6400 Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Anyone who touches or has contact with a bat is at risk of getting rabies and should seek medical evaluation immediately.

Public Health receives numerous reports of people exposed to bats every year. Please check out the Public Health Insider article on What to do When You Encounter a Bat. Do not forget to update your pets with the rabies vaccine as required by Washington State Law (WAC 246-100-197) and contact your veterinarian if you believe your pet has come in contact with a bat.

Additional Resources:

Chelan-Douglas Health District

Washington State Department of Health

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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