A bat infected with rabies was found near Rancho Santa Margarita Lake in Orange County, raising concerns among health officials. The discovery occurred on April 17 during routine rabies surveillance by the OC Health Care Agency. The agency reported that the bat’s carcass was frozen and sent to the California Department of Public Health for testing.
Health authorities are urging anyone who may have come into contact with the bat to report it to the Disease Control Division. This includes people who physically touched the bat or witnessed someone else doing so. Pet owners whose animals may have interacted with the bat are also encouraged to reach out to health officials.
Rabies is a serious disease that can be fatal in humans once symptoms appear. Health experts emphasize the importance of seeking medical help immediately if there is a chance of exposure. The rabies virus spreads through the saliva of infected animals, typically through bites. Because bats have small teeth, their bites often go unnoticed, increasing the risk of infection.
As of April, Los Angeles County has documented two rabid bats this year, both found in the Santa Clarita area. In 2024, Fresno County reported its first human rabies death in over 30 years, linked to a bat bite.
While human cases of rabies are rare, bats are the leading source of transmission. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and remind the public to be cautious around wildlife, especially bats.