Community
Three Bats Test Positive for Rabies in Shasta County in 2026
Shasta County health officials are reminding residents to vaccinate pets and avoid touching bats after three tested positive for rabies in 2026. Possible exposure requires prompt medical attention, even when a bite is difficult to see.
Three bats found in Shasta County have tested positive for rabies so far in 2026, prompting a reminder for residents in Redding and communities across the county to keep pets vaccinated and avoid direct contact with wildlife.
Shasta County Health and Human Services Agency shared the warning along with safety advice for people who encounter a bat at home or outdoors. Most bats do not carry rabies, but any possible exposure should be taken seriously.
Small bites can be easy to miss
Rabies is a viral disease that can infect people and other mammals, including dogs and cats. It spreads through infected saliva, usually through bites. Scratches and saliva entering an open wound, the eyes, nose or mouth can also cause exposure.
Bat bites can be tiny and difficult to notice. If you are bitten or scratched, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water and get medical help right away. Contact public health if you think you may have had contact with a bat, even if you cannot find an obvious injury.
Preventive treatment after exposure can stop rabies from developing. Once symptoms begin, the disease is nearly always fatal. Do not wait for symptoms before seeking care.
What to do if you find a bat
Keep children and pets away, and never touch a bat with bare hands. A bat that cannot fly, is on the ground or behaves unusually needs professional attention. Appearance alone cannot establish whether an animal has rabies.
If a bat is found inside your home, contact animal control or public health before releasing it. Testing may be needed to determine whether someone requires treatment.
If it can be done safely without touching the animal, a box or bucket can be placed over a resting bat while help is arranged. Otherwise, keep your distance and call for assistance. Do not put yourself at risk trying to capture it.
Protect pets and teach children to keep their distance
Check that dogs and cats are current on their rabies vaccinations. Keep pets confined or on a leash and prevent contact with unfamiliar animals. If a pet may have encountered a bat, contact a veterinarian and animal control promptly.
Teach children to tell an adult when they find a bat rather than approaching or picking it up. Bats help control insects and should be observed from a safe distance.
Who to call in Shasta County
For possible exposures, assistance with a bat and testing guidance:
- Unincorporated Shasta County, Sheriff’s Office Animal Regulation: 530-245-6065.
- Redding and Anderson Animal Regulation: 530-241-2550.
- Shasta Lake Animal Regulation: 530-275-7480.
- Shasta County HHSA Public Health, for health guidance: 530-225-5591.
More local guidance is available on Shasta County’s Rabies and Bat Safety page.