Rabies reports are climbing across the United States this year, pushing inquiries after potential exposures up 17% compared to last year according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Santa Cruz County, authorities have identified nine rabid bats so far this year.
Rising Bat Encounters and Regional Increases
Statewide totals in California reached 368 reported rabid animals so far this year, tracking above the 342 reports recorded last year. Last year’s statewide figures included more than 300 rabid bats, alongside 19 skunks and a few foxes and cats. In the Bay Area, there were 48 rabies exposures reported last year and 47 so far this year.
Alameda County reported at least one domestic cat among its exposures. In Santa Cruz County, in each case, at least one individual was exposed to the bat and needed treatment.
Unexplained Factors Driving the Uptick
Public health experts cannot yet pinpoint a single cause for the national rise, pointing to potential factors like climate change, or heightened public awareness following recent infectious disease headlines. Dr. Matt Willis, former Marin County health officer, noted that approximately 10% of bats tested in Marin County consistently test positive for rabies year after year, creating a perpetual local reservoir of the virus.
Dr. Monica Gandhi, a UCSF infectious disease expert, suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic left communities more sensitive to pathogen presence. That heightened sensitivity coincides with a summer that featured unusual animal encounters, including rabid baby goats at a North Carolina petting zoo, a Virginia woman who woke up with a bat in her mouth, a rabid beaver attacking a child in Maryland, and two separate otter attacks in Lake Tahoe.
Medical Treatment and Prevention Guidelines
Post-exposure prophylaxis is incredibly effective, and almost everyone who is treated will avoid illness. Treatment involves the rabies vaccine coupled with rabies immunoglobulin, a fast-acting antibody providing immediate protection.
Dr. Maris Brenn-White, veterinarian for the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter, emphasized basic precautions for residents. Authorities advise keeping dogs leashed and maintaining a distance of at least 150 feet from sick wildlife. Public health officials also remind residents never to touch wild animals, particularly bats found during daylight hours or animals unable to fly.