OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK, Wash. — Disturbing discovery at Olympic National Park where a bat that swooped down and temporarily got caught in an unidentified woman’s hair later test positive for rabies. The incident happened on August 9th near the Staircase Bridge at approximately 2 p.m. This woman is at risk for rabies and should seek healthcare immediately.
The bat also swooped at other visitors in the area and it is not known whether or not other people had contact with the infected bat. Anyone who may have had contact with a bat in the area (even if not bitten) should contact a healthcare provider and their local health department promptly to determine whether treatment is needed. If you are concerned that your pet (i.e. pet dog) may have had direct contact with a bat, contacting your local veterinarian is recommended.
Rabies is a deadly virus that can infects the central nervous system of any mammal. Bats are the most common carriers of rabies. It is usually transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal or through contact with its saliva. Bat bites and scratches can be very small and may not always be visible or painful, so anyone who believes they may have had direct contact with a bat should speak with a healthcare provider immediately to evaluate their rabies exposure risk. Rabies is preventable if prompt professional medical care is received following an exposure.
