09/04/2026
Rabid bats have been recently found in North Dakota
For possible human exposure, contact ND HHS at 701-328-2378. If a pet may have been exposed, contact your veterinarian or the North Dakota Department of Agriculture at 701-328-2231.
Read the full notice:
https://www.hhs.nd.gov/news/rabid-bats-reported-bismarck
⚠️ Rabid Bats Reported in North Dakot
The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services recently reported that two bats found in Bismarck tested positive for rabies. While these cases were reported in Bismarck, bat exposure is also an important concern in rural areas, particularly around homes, barns, cabins and other outbuildings.
Late summer and early fall bring increased bat activity. Please remember:
🦇 Never touch a bat with your bare hands.
🦇 Watch for bats that are active during the day, lying on the ground or unable to fly.
🦇 If a bat was in a room with a sleeping person, unattended child or someone unable to confirm whether contact occurred, do not release it until you have contacted health officials.
🦇 Safely contain any bat that may have contacted a person or pet so it can potentially be tested. Wear thick gloves and follow official guidance.
🦇 Keep your pets and livestock vaccinations current.
🦇 Seal openings around roofs, siding, chimneys, windows and vents. Bats can enter through openings as small as one-quarter inch.
🦇 Wear leather gloves, long sleeves and pants when cleaning barns, attics, cabins or other areas where bats may be present.
Rabies is almost always fatal after symptoms begin, but it is preventable when exposure is reported and treated promptly.
For possible human exposure, contact ND HHS at 701-328-2378. If a pet may have been exposed, contact your veterinarian or the North Dakota Department of Agriculture at 701-328-2231.
Read the full notice:
https://www.hhs.nd.gov/news/rabid-bats-reported-bismarck
Please share this information with neighbors, family members and others who live or work in rural areas.
