July 22, 2026 3:30 a.m.
Douglas County Environmental Health Division, working in conjunction with Douglas Public Health Network and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Division received a report from Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory confirming that two additional bats in Douglas County have tested positive for rabies.
A county release said nineteen bats have tested positive in Oregon so far this year, three of which are from Douglas County. The first positive bat was reported in May.
There two bats were sent for testing by Douglas County Environmental Health Division in accordance with Oregon Health Authority’s Investigative Guidelines for Animal Bires and Rabies. A Douglas County resident was bitten on the finger after picking up a sick bat during the day. They have been notified of the positive results and are receiving follow-up medical care. The second bat was found by a dog who was fortunately up to date on their rabies vaccinations. The owner has been identified, and the dog has received follow-up veterinary care.
In Oregon, bats are the only reservoir species that naturally carry and sustain the rabies virus in the wild. Other animals like foxes, skunks, or cats and dogs can become infected after contracting an infected bat. Douglas County Environmental Health Supervisor Phil Kailuli said people should not touch a bat or any other wild animal. To protect pets, people should ensure their dogs, cats and ferrets are up to date on their vaccinations. For assistance and wildlife advice, call the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife at 440-3353 or Umpqua Wildlife Rescue at 440-6895.
If someone is accidentally bitten or scratched by a bat, County Public Health Officer Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer said, “It is important to not delay medical care after a bat encounter. To prevent rabies transmission, wash the wound with soap and running water and go to the closest emergency room to start post-exposure treatment”.
To report an animal bite or to get questions answered related to animal bites and rabies, contact Douglas County Environmental Health at 440-4459.