Visitors to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park are being urged to report any contact with a wild bat that was found dead and later tested positive for rabies. The bat was recovered outside the Oasis on the Rocks restaurant on July 11, and county health officials are conducting an investigation to identify anyone who may have had direct contact with the animal. The bat was not part of the Safari Park’s collection, and no human contact has been reported. This incident marks the 19th bat confirmed with rabies in San Diego County this year, highlighting the continued presence of rabies in wildlife. Rabies is a highly serious viral disease, with nearly a 100% fatality rate if not treated promptly.
Why It Matters
Rabies remains a significant public health concern, especially in areas where wildlife populations are prevalent. In the United States, bats are one of the primary carriers of rabies, accounting for the majority of human cases. In San Diego County, the detection of rabies in bats serves as a reminder of the importance of avoiding contact with wild animals and the need for public awareness regarding wildlife safety. This year’s 19 confirmed cases reflect a growing trend, as only 21 bats tested positive for rabies throughout all of 2025, indicating an increasing incidence of the disease within local bat populations.
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