# US rabies concerns in bat and wildlife populations

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/us-rabies-concerns-in-bat-populations
> Updated: 2026-09-09T18:09:01.000Z. Sources: 20. Developments: 6.

Public health officials in the United States continue to monitor rabies concerns following confirmed cases in various wildlife populations.

In New York, Sullivan County officials reported the first confirmed rabies case in a bat in the Livingston Manor area this year. In response, a vaccination clinic for dogs, cats, and ferrets has been scheduled for September 16 at the Narrowsburg Fire House. 

In California, officials in Berkeley have noted an uptick in cases, with five bats testing positive so far this year, compared to two or fewer in each of the previous six years. These bats were identified in residential and commercial areas of West and North Berkeley. Additionally, a cat in Pleasanton tested positive. In Yosemite National Park, the National Park Service reported that a bat found dead near Curry Village in May tested positive for rabies. While no human contact was reported, the delayed announcement has drawn criticism from visitors. Officials continue to urge anyone who may have had contact with bats in the Curry Village area around May 18 to seek medical attention immediately.

Previous confirmed cases include bats in Idaho, Georgia, Texas, and Nebraska, as well as a raccoon in Oneida County, New York. Health officials emphasize that while rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear, it is “almost entirely preventable” if medical treatment is administered promptly. Residents are advised to avoid handling wildlife and to ensure pets are up to date on vaccinations.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-09: Sullivan County health officials issue rabies and measles alerts

Sullivan County health officials are warning residents of a confirmed rabies case in a local bat and are monitoring regional measles activity in neighboring Pennsylvania.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sullivan-county-health-officials-issue-rabies-and-measles-alerts

### 2026-09-03: California health officials warn of rabies in bats

Health officials in California are warning of rabies detections in bats in Berkeley and Yosemite National Park, emphasizing the need for immediate medical treatment following potential exposure.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/california-health-officials-warn-of-rabies-in-bats

### 2026-08-27: Oneida County confirms two new rabies cases in bat and raccoon

Oneida County health officials confirmed two new rabies cases in a bat and a raccoon, resulting in exposure to two people and two dogs.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/oneida-county-confirms-two-new-rabies-cases-in-bat-and-raccoon

### 2026-08-24: Rabies confirmed in bats in Georgia and Texas

Rabies has been confirmed in bats in both DeKalb County, Georgia, and San Angelo, Texas, prompting health officials to urge pet vaccinations and caution regarding wildlife contact.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rabies-confirmed-in-bats-in-georgia-and-texas

### 2026-08-18: Health officials address bat sightings and rabies concerns in Michigan and Nebraska

Health officials in Michigan and Nebraska are responding to increased bat sightings and rabies concerns, while experts highlight the ecological importance of bats despite population declines.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/health-officials-address-bat-sightings-and-rabies-concerns-in-michigan-and-nebraska

### 2026-08-12: Rabies confirmed in bat found in Mackay, Idaho

A bat in Mackay, Idaho, has tested positive for rabies. Health officials warn that bat bites can go unnoticed during sleep and urge immediate medical consultation if exposure is suspected.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rabies-confirmed-in-bat-found-in-mackay-idaho

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Cite as: US rabies concerns in bat and wildlife populations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/us-rabies-concerns-in-bat-populations
