JACKSON, Wyo. — The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) has confirmed the first case of rabies in the state so far this year.
According to a news release from WDH, the confirmed case occurred in Sheridan County in May. WDH is warning residents about wild animals that could carry rabies, especially as summer approaches and temperatures rise.
“A rabid bat was found in the backyard of a home in a downtown residential neighborhood,” WDH said. “This highlights the need to stay alert outdoors, not just in the woods.”
The most common carriers of rabies in Wyoming are bats and skunks, per WDH. However, any mammal could become infected — including humans and pets — through bites and scratches from an animal with rabies. The viral disease cannot spread by touching an infected animal or its excrement.
Jackson Lake Lodge experienced a rabies scare last summer when a bat colony was found in the attic space above eight guest rooms. Visitors who might have been exposed were contacted, and the rooms were shut down. According to the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory’s website, Teton County most recently saw rabies cases in three bats in 2023.
“Rabies is a fatal but preventable disease,” said WDH state public health veterinarian Dr. Emily Curren. “Anyone with potential exposure to a rabid animal should wash the wound thoroughly with warm water and soap, and seek medical advice about the need for rabies post-exposure prophylaxis treatment.”
Since bat bites are not always visible, anyone who has direct contact with a bat or wakes up with a bat in the room should immediately contact a health provider. Last year, there were six confirmed cases of rabies in Wyoming animals. Read more here about what to do in a batty situation.
