Notification of Public Risk: Rabid Bat Found at Fish Hatchery, Leavenworth, WA

Wenatchee, WA — A rabid bat was recovered by Animal Control on July 31, 2018, at about 6:00PM from the ground at the Leavenworth, Washington Fish Hatchery, 12790 Fish Hatchery Road. Animal Control delivered the bat to Chelan-Douglas Health District who turned it over to the Washington State Lab, where the bat tested positive for rabies. It is unknown whether anyone (or any pets) touched or were otherwise exposed to the rabid bat. Touching a rabid bat may expose a person or pet to rabies.

If you or any person or pet had contact with the bat, Chelan-Douglas Health District asks that you contact your local public health department or your health care provider. For any Chelan-Douglas residents, you can reach the Health District at 509-886-6400 Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. At other times, call our 24/7 answering service at 509-886-6499. Anyone who touches or has contact with a rabid 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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