First rabid bat of 2026 confirmed in southern Utah

ST. GEORGE — A bat found in Washington Coun­ty has tested positive for rabies, marking Utah’s first confirmed rabid bat of 2026, according to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services.

The department issued the notice this week and urged residents across Southern Utah to avoid direct contact with bats and other wild animals.

Rabies is rare in Utah, but bats are the most common source when cases are iden­tified. The virus attacks the nervous system and is considered nearly always fatal once symptoms begin, making prompt treatment after a possible exposure especially important.

Health officials said any­one bitten or scratched by a bat should wash the area thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical care right away. Residents are also encouraged to con­tact animal control or local health officials if a bat is found inside a home or in an area where contact may have occurred.

Officials said waking up to find a bat in a bedroom can be considered a possible exposure, particularly if a child, older adult or sleep­ing person was present.

Pet owners are also en­couraged to keep dogs and cats current on rabies vac­cinations.

While the confirmed case was reported in Washing­ton County, bat activity typically increases across Southern Utah during warmer months, including Kane County and neighbor­ing communities. Bats are commonly found in barns, sheds, attics, rock crevices and older structures.

Health officials stressed that most bats do not carry rabies, but residents should never handle one with bare hands.