Bats infected with rabies detected in Deschutes, Douglas counties
Rabies-infected bats have been detected in Deschutes and Douglas counties in Oregon, prompting health alerts. Authorities urge the public to avoid handling wild animals and keep pets vaccinated to prevent rabies transmission.
Health officials in Oregon have confirmed rabies-infected bats in Deschutes and Douglas counties. Deschutes County issued a rabies alert after a dog encountered a positive bat, while Douglas County reported its first case since 2021. Rabies spreads through saliva and poses a serious risk, though cases remain rare. Peggy Cheatham, president of Umpqua Wildlife Rescue in Roseburg, advises leaving wild animals alone due to disease risks. Signs of sickness include foaming at the mouth, circling behavior, or daytime activity in nocturnal species. She emphasizes the importance of keeping pets vaccinated against rabies. Bats are the most common rabies carriers in the U.S. but also play a vital ecological role. Handling distressed bats with bare hands requires rabies testing and may result in euthanasia, so interference is discouraged. The rescue’s motto is ‘If you care, leave them there.’ For assistance with injured wildlife, Umpqua Wildlife Rescue offers a 24/7 hotline. Additional resources are available through Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife field offices, state police, and public health departments. The Oregon Health Authority recommends avoiding contact with bats and reporting bites or exposures immediately.
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