At least 50 rabid bats have been found in Los Angeles this year, serving as an important reminder for residents to know what to do if they encounter a bat in or around their home.
Bats are protected wildlife and should never be touched with bare hands. If you find a bat that appears sick, is not moving, or is dead, keep people and pets away. If it is safe to do so, place a box or bucket over the bat without touching it and contact local animal control.
If a bat is found inside your home and you did not see it enter, do not release it. Close off the room and call animal control so the bat can be retrieved and tested. Bats can transmit rabies, so any potential exposure involving a person or pet should be taken seriously. Keep pets up to date on their rabies vaccinations and teach children to alert an adult if they encounter a bat.
For rabies risk consultations, contact Los Angeles County Veterinary Public Health at 213-288-7060 or vet@ph.lacounty.gov, Monday through Friday from 8:00am–5:00pm. Additional information is available at publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet.
