Los Angeles County, CA — November 5, 2025: The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed 61 rabid bats so far this year, marking the second-highest number ever recorded. Only 2021 saw more cases (68). Officials are urging residents to avoid contact with bats and wild animals as rabies remains nearly always fatal once symptoms appear.
A Decade-Long Upward Trend
Rabid bat detections fluctuate year to year but have shown a steady increase over the past decade. Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis emphasized,
“Bats are vital to our environment, but they can also carry rabies. Anyone who may have had contact with a bat should speak with a medical provider or contact Public Health immediately.”
What Counts as Exposure
Rabies exposure can occur through:
- Bites or scratches
- Contact between bat saliva/tissue and open wounds, the mouth, nose, or eyes
Because bat bites can go unnoticed, anyone who wakes to find a bat in a room,or finds a bat near a sleeping person, child, or pet,should treat it as possible exposure and contact Animal Control or Public Health. If safe, the bat should not be released so it can be tested.
County-Wide Detections
Rabid bats have been identified throughout Los Angeles County, from the San Fernando Valley to downtown Los Angeles, parks, schools, and residential areas.
In 2024, August had the highest detection rate, with 23 rabid bats confirmed,one in three bats tested positive that month.
Santa Clarita Valley: Area of Concern
The Santa Clarita Valley has consistently reported the most rabid bats, particularly among the Canyon Bat species. Ongoing community outreach since 2018 has improved awareness, but Public Health notes that the higher numbers still represent an ongoing health concern.
Public Health Safety Reminders
- Never touch bats or wild animals.
- Report and test: If a bat is found indoors, especially near sleeping people or pets, cover it safely and call Animal Control.
- Seek medical care immediately if contact occurred or rabies is suspected.
- Vaccinate pets, including indoor cats. Rabies in animals is 100% fatal but preventable.
- Recognize sick bats: Active during the day, on the ground, or unable to fly.
- Stay informed: About 14% of bats that come into contact with people or pets in LA County test positive for rabies, rising to 33% in late summer.
For more information, visit the LA County Department of Public Health Veterinary Public Health program at
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/rabies.htm
Source: Los Angeles County Department of Public Health press release (Nov. 5, 2025).
Unlock the Power of Your Mind
Discover The Brain Song — a sound-based system that helps boost focus, balance emotions, and recharge your energy naturally.
