A bat found in Ada County tested positive for rabies this week, making it the first rabid bat reported in Idaho this year.

Two vaccinated dogs were exposed to the rabid bat; their owner is working with a veteran to assure they receive rabies boosters. Public health officials are investigating any exposure to humans.

Rabies is 100% fatal for people and animals who don’t get timely medical attention after exposure to a rabid animal. In 2021, an Idaho resident died from rabies after contact with a rabid bat.

“People should call their healthcare providers promptly if they believe they have been bitten or scratched by a bat to discuss the need for post-exposure shots, which are extremely effective at preventing rabies,” said Dr. Leslie Tengelsen, state public health veterinarian.

Pet owners should contact their veterinarian if they believe their pets had contact with a bat, regardless of vaccination status.

“It is extremely important for people and animals to avoid all bats and other wild animals, particularly if they appear sick or are acting aggressively or abnormally,” Tengelson said.

The main rabies carrier animal in Idaho is the bat, but rabies has also been found in other wild and domestic animals. Idaho averages about 16 rabid bat reports annually.

Rabid bats have been discovered in North Idaho in years past. In 2013, three Kootenai County residents were treated for possible exposure to rabies after a rabid bat got inside their home.

Humans most commonly come into contact with bats when a pet brings one into the home or when a bat enters a home through a small opening or open windows and doors.

People sometimes wake up to find a bat in the room and may not be sure whether they have been bitten or scratched while they slept. In these circumstances, a healthcare provider should be consulted.

Bats should be tested for rabies if there is any chance a person, pet, or livestock had contact with it. There is no need to test a bat that has had no interaction with people, pets or livestock.