8legs: Snohomish county health department

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3 receiving preventive treatment after exposure to rabid bat in Snohomish County home

Three Snohomish County residents are receiving preventive rabies treatment after exposure to a rabid bat.
The bat entered a private home in rural eastern Snohomish County and was captured the next day.
Testing confirmed the bat was positive for rabies, marking the county's first rabid bat since 2023.
Exposed individuals receive vaccinations and a dose of human rabies immune globulin for immediate protection.
Rabies vaccination and immune globulin treatment are highly effective when started promptly.
Bats are the only known natural carriers of rabies in Washington, though other animals can be exposed.
Officials urge precautions such as sealing openings and keeping pets vaccinated.
Residents should contact their local health department if exposure is possible.
The case comes as bat season begins with warmer weather and outdoor activity increasing.
The public is advised to avoid handling bats and seek professional help for bat-related exposure.
The bat tested positive for rabies at the Washington State Public Health Laboratory.

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