Notification of Public Risk: Rabid Bat Found in Cashmere Neighborhood

Chelan County, WA— A rabid bat was found near Meadow Sweet Place in Cashmere, WA on August 10, 2018. Animal Control delivered the dead bat to Chelan-Douglas Health District who turned it over to the Washington State Lab for testing. It is unknown if anyone (or any pets) touched or were exposed to the rabid bat. Touching the 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), came in contact with the bat. 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 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

###