Health officials have issued an urgent warning after a dead wild bat found near a restaurant at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park tested positive for rabies. Visitors are being asked to report any direct contact with the animal as authorities work to identify possible exposures.
The case has drawn added concern because rabies is a severe and potentially deadly virus once symptoms begin. The warning described the situation as extremely serious, underscoring why even brief contact with a wild bat can require immediate medical evaluation.
According to the information released, the infected bat marks the 19th rabies case recorded in San Diego County in 2026. That total highlights ongoing concern around wildlife-related rabies risk and the importance of avoiding contact with bats and other wild animals, even if they appear injured or dead.
Officials are urging anyone who may have touched the bat or had close exposure to seek guidance right away. Public health experts typically stress that quick action after a possible rabies exposure is critical, making prompt reporting especially important in a case like this.
