Rabies-Carrying Bats on the Rise in Riverside County

RIVERSIDE, CA — Health officials are alerting the public to an increase in rabid bats in Riverside County and advising residents to steer clear of these animals.

So far this year, 18 bats carrying rabies have been reported in the county, surpassing the 15 found last year, according to the Riverside University Health System. An advisory was issued on Wednesday, emphasizing that any bites from bats should be considered a serious matter, as noted by RUHS.

“Once symptoms of rabies appear in humans, it’s almost always fatal. While rabies cases in humans are quite rare in California, the risk from bat bites is significant,” stated Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky, the Public Health Officer for Riverside County. “Bite wounds may be painless and not leave visible marks, so if you find a bat in your home, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial.”

Bats are recognized as the primary carriers of rabies in California.

To minimize the risk of rabies infection, residents should follow these recommendations:

• Do not attempt to handle or touch bats.
• Ensure pets are vaccinated against rabies.
• Notify animal control or Public Health if you think you’ve been exposed.
• Seal off any entry points in your home to prevent bats from getting inside.
• Avoid contact with bats and other wildlife, like skunks, raccoons, foxes, and coyotes.

If you’ve been in contact with a bat, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and consult a medical professional immediately; they can determine whether post-exposure vaccination is necessary.

About 100,000 people in the U.S. receive rabies vaccinations annually after possible exposures, as reported by the Riverside County Department of Animal Services.

“If a pet contracts rabies, it could take varying amounts of time for symptoms to surface—sometimes days, other times months,” said Dr. Amy Raines, Chief Veterinarian for the Riverside County Department of Animal Services. “It’s vital to avoid feeding or handling wild animals and to ensure pets are protected when outdoors. Vaccination against rabies is the best prevention for pets, safeguarding them and their owners.”

Signs of rabies in dogs and cats can include:

• Increased aggression, irritability, or lethargy
• Light fever
• Coordination difficulties
• Excessive drooling or difficulty swallowing
• Paralysis affecting the throat or jaw, complicating eating and drinking

In Riverside County, all dogs must be vaccinated against rabies starting at four months old, with regular boosters needed throughout their lifetime.

If you have any questions about rabies or local resources, please reach out to RUHS–PH Disease Control at 951-358-5107.