DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. — A bat found in Douglas County has tested positive for rabies, marking the county’s first confirmed rabies case of 2026 and the first rabid bat identified locally since 2021, according to Douglas County officials.
The positive test was confirmed by the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory after the bat was brought in for care by a concerned resident. The Douglas County Environmental Health Division coordinated the response alongside the Douglas Public Health Network, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Division, and Umpqua Wildlife Rescue.
Officials said the resident who handled the distressed bat will be advised to undergo post-exposure medical care in accordance with Oregon Health Authority guidelines for rabies exposure investigations.
Rabies is a viral disease transmitted primarily through the bite of an infected animal. Health officials emphasized that prompt post-exposure treatment is highly effective, but prevention remains the best protection.
“People should avoid any and all contact with bats or other wild animals; make sure your dogs, cats and ferrets are vaccinated against rabies; and if you are bitten by an animal, please contact your doctor or health care provider and seek medical attention immediately,” said Phil Kailiuli, supervisor for the Douglas County Environmental Health Division.
Kailiuli also reminded residents that bats play an important role in the ecosystem but should never be handled directly.
“Bats that are sick may be found lying on the ground, unable to fly, or displaying unusual behavior,” Kailiuli said. “If you encounter a sick bat or other ill wildlife on your property, do not touch the animal. Bring children and pets indoors and contact professionals for assistance.”
Officials advised residents to contact the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Roseburg Field Office or Umpqua Wildlife Rescue if they encounter sick or injured wildlife.
The announcement also serves as a reminder for residents to avoid interacting with unfamiliar animals, even those that appear tame or friendly, as frightened or startled animals can bite.
Health officials offered several additional safety recommendations, including:
- Avoid contact with bats, especially those seen active during daylight hours.
- Never attempt to handle wounded wildlife.
- Do not feed, capture, or play with wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, squirrels, bats, foxes, opossums, or rodents.
- Avoid disturbing animals while they are feeding or caring for young.
- Never attempt to remove baby wildlife from nests or dens.
Residents with questions about animal bites or rabies exposure can contact the Douglas County Environmental Health Division or the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Division. Additional rabies prevention information is also available through the Douglas Public Health Network, the Oregon Health Authority, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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