Thurston County reports first bat rabies case, 13th overall in Washington state this year

Thurston County Public Health and Social Services (PHSS) has confirmed the first case of bat rabies in Thurston County this year, making the thirteenth such case in Washington State in 2023.

The rabies-positive bat was discovered on the porch of a residence in Thurston County and sent to the Washington State Public Health Lab for testing.

Last August 29, PHSS received the positive test results for rabies, with the person who found the bat advised to seek immediate medical attention and begin post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

What to do if you encounter a bat

Determining whether a bat is rabid based on its appearance alone is hard, the county’s article said.

Both living and deceased bats can carry the virus, and handling an infected bat can transmit rabies.

Caution and awareness are essential when encountering bats, “especially infants, young children, and people with reduced mental function due to medication, alcohol, illness, or age” as they may not know that they have been bitten or scratched and will not see the importance of telling other people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Immediate action is necessary for those who suspect they have been bitten or scratched by a bat or have been exposed to infectious material such as unknown saliva, waste, or body material.

• Thoroughly wash the wound or the exposed part of the body with soap and water, and seek immediate medical attention.
• Whenever feasible, the bat should be captured and sent to a laboratory for rabies testing.
• When dealing with bats outdoors, it is advisable to avoid intentional contact with them.
• Bats are commonly seen outside, particularly during dusk and night time hours.
• Utilize screens, tents, or mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors to minimize exposure.

If direct contact with a bat occurs outdoors, consult a healthcare or public health professional to determine if rabies vaccination is necessary.

If you encounter a bat within your home, it is crucial to contact a healthcare professional for guidance and arrange for the bat’s capture and potential rabies testing.

Animal control, wildlife conservation, or a public health agency can assist.

In the case that professional help is unavailable, follow these safe procedures in capturing a bat for testing:

• Find a container large enough for the bat to fit in, punch small air holes in a piece of cardboard, and use leather work gloves for protection.
• Slowly approach the bat and cover it with the container, then slide the cardboard underneath to trap the bat.
• Secure the cardboard to the container and contact the local health department for rabies testing.

Preventing bats from entering your home is also essential.

Check for openings that might allow bats to enter, use window screens, chimney caps, and draft guards, fill any holes with appropriate materials, and ensure all doors are always closed.

Careful handling of the bats should be practiced

US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) reminds readers that bats play an important role in the ecosystem therefore, should be handled carefully when encountered.

Bats aid in pest control, pollinate plants, disperse seeds, and many more.

Recent studies estimate that bats save more than $1 billion annually in crop damage and pesticide costs in the United States corn industry alone.

FWS asked that if you encounter a bat in your home, remove it without causing harm or use humane methods like the previously mentioned methods.

It is essential to be aware of local regulations on bat removal, as some species may be endangered and protected and require special care when found in residential settings.

By taking these precautions, we can safeguard ourselves and the vital role bats play in our ecosystem.

If you encounter a bat, contact Public Health and Social Services at (360) 867-2667 during business hours, WA Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 during after-hours and weekends, or dial 911 for medical emergencies.

Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on capturing a bat indoors.

To learn about living with bats and how to prevent rabies infection, read the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife’s publication “Living with Wildlife: Bats”