Rabid Bat Reported in Pasadena, Health Officials Urge Caution

A dead bat infected with rabies has been reported in Pasadena, prompting local health officials to issue a warning to residents about the potential dangers of contact with bats.

The Pasadena Public Health Department said that the infected bat was reported near the intersection of E. Green St. and S. Hudson Ave. This marks the first case of a rabid bat in Pasadena for 2024.

Manuel Carmona, Acting Director of Public Health, said “While the last rabid bat in Pasadena was found in 2019, there is the potential for additional rabid bats in the region.”

Health officials emphasized that the risk of rabies infection in humans remains low. However, they advised the public to exercise caution and avoid any contact with bats, particularly during summer and early fall months.

Rabid bats are most often found in Los Angeles County from July through September. In Los Angeles County, bats are the only animals known to routinely carry rabies, officials noted.

Dr. Parveen Kaur, Pasadena’s Acting Health Officer, warned, “Any contact by humans or pets with a rabid bat is a very serious health concern. Rabies is often a fatal disease and requires timely preventive medical treatment.”

The Pasadena Public Health Department stressed the importance of immediately reporting any sightings of injured, sick, or dead bats to local animal control agencies. In Pasadena, residents can contact Pasadena Humane at (626) 792-7151 for assistance.

Authorities advised never to touch a bat with bare hands. If skin contact with a bat occurs, individuals should wash the area immediately with soap and water and seek prompt medical care.

They also recommended discussing any animal bites with a medical provider as soon as possible. If pets are affected, owners should contact an emergency veterinarian immediately.

For more information on rabies prevention and safety measures, residents are encouraged to visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at CDC.gov/rabies.

The City of Pasadena urges residents to stay connected through its website, CityOfPasadena.net, and social media platforms Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. The City Service Center is available on weekdays at (626) 744-7311.