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

Chelan County, WA—Two dead bats were found in downtown Wenatchee. One bat was found in a public alley way at 338 North Wenatchee Avenue in Wenatchee and collected by Animal Control on August 3, 2018. The second bat was found on the public sidewalk at 22 North Wenatchee Avenue in Wenatchee and collected by Animal Control on August 6, 2018. Animal Control delivered both dead bats to Chelan-Douglas Health District. Due to the conditions of the bats, they could not be tested for rabies. It is unknown if anyone (or any pets) touched or were otherwise exposed to these bats. Touching a rabid bat may expose a person or pet to rabies.

Chelan-Douglas Health District asks that you contact your local health jurisdiction if you or someone you know (or any pets) touched 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 encounters a bat should be evaluated by a medical professional for risk of rabies. If bitten, the medical provider should immediately report the bat bite to Chelan-Douglas Health District or your local health jurisdiction.

Please remember to never touch live or dead wild animals – especially bats, and keep all pets updated on their vaccines as required by Washington State Law (WAC 246-100-197). Please 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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