Rabid bat found near playground at Renton’s Gene Coulon Park

Health officials are warning the public that a rabid bat was found near a popular park in Renton.

According to Public Health – Seattle and King County, the rabid bat was found on July 28 on the sidewalk at the south end of the park, in the area near the playground, south shelter, and park restrooms.

Anyone who may have had physical contact with this bat (even if not bitten) could be at risk and should seek medical evaluation immediately or call Public Health at 206-296-4774 to determine whether rabies preventive treatment is necessary.

Rabies is fatal once symptoms begin, according to the health department.

“Rabies is treatable if it’s caught before symptoms begin, so it’s important to identify anyone who has had contact with the bat as soon as possible,” Jocelyn Mullins, Public Health Veterinarian at Public Health – Seattle and King County, said. “Contact includes touching a bat, being bitten or scratched, or having any other bare skin touch a bat or its saliva.”

If you see a bat outside, do not touch the bat. If you are concerned that the bat is sick, call animal control at 206-296-7387 (PETS). Find animal control services in your area here.

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Symptoms of rabies

The first symptoms of rabies may be very similar to those of the flu and may last for days.

Later signs and symptoms may include:

• • Fever
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Agitation
  • Anxiety
  • Confusion
  • Hyperactivity
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Excessive salivation
  • Fear brought on by attempts to drink fluids because of difficulty swallowing water
  • Fear brought on by air blown on the face
  • Hallucinations
  • Insomnia
  • Partial paralysis

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