Bats Pasadena Rabies Pasadena Public Health Department Public Health

Pasadena Public Health Officials Warn of Rabies Risk After Dead Bat Tests Positive

Pasadena Public Health Department Seeks Community Help in Locating Individuals Who May Have Had Contact with Dead Bat

Anyone who believes they may have come into contact with the bat is urged to seek medical attention immediately

Pasadena, Calif. – Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD) officials are warning the public about the risk of rabies after a dead bat tested positive for the virus. The bat was found in the area of North Los Robles Avenue and East Claremont Street on Thursday, July 14, 2023. Rabies is a deadly but preventable viral disease that can be transmitted to humans through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. Symptoms of rabies in humans can include fever, headache, muscle weakness, and mental confusion. If left untreated, rabies can lead to coma and death. PPHD is urging anyone who believes they may have come into contact with the bat to seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of rabies can take several weeks to appear, so it is important to seek medical attention even if you do not feel sick. PPHD is also asking the public to help locate any individuals who may have had contact with the bat. Anyone who has seen a bat behaving strangely in the area of North Los Robles Avenue and East Claremont Street in the past few weeks is urged to contact PPHD at (626) 744-6012. Rabies is a serious disease, but it can be prevented. PPHD recommends the following tips to help prevent rabies:

1. Avoid contact with wild animals, especially bats.
2. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.
3. Vaccinate your pets against rabies.
4. Report any dead animals to your local animal control agency.

For more information about rabies, please visit the PPHD website at www.cityofpasadena.net/publichealth or call (626) 744-6012.