Communicable Disease
Epidemiology
Current Issues -- Rabies
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Communicable Disease
Epidemiology |
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2008 Rabies Activity in Washington (updated 8/27/08)The primary reservoir of rabies in the Northwest is bats. Rabid bats have been found in almost every county in Washington. Between 5-10% of bats submitted for testing are found to be rabid. This is a skewed population of sick and injured bats; less than 1% of healthy bats are infected with rabies. In 2008, thirteen rabid bats have been identified in Washington State to date; one each from from Pierce, Pacific, Clallam, King, Whitman, Thurston, Chelan, Island, and Snohomish Counties, and two each from Clark and Wahkiakum Counties. In 2007, twenty-two rabid bats were identified: one each from Ferry, Grays Harbor, Mason, Whatcom, Skagit, Okanogan, Clark, Clallam, Asotin, and Cowlitz Counties; two from Pierce County; three each from Spokane and Kitsap Counties; and four from King County. Prevent rabies by vaccinating pets. Avoid feeding and having contact with wildlife. It is very important to thoroughly wash wounds from animal bites and safely capture any bat that has had contact with a person. Call your local health department with questions. Map of reported rabid bat locations in Washington state, 2008 |
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