Rabies virus activity detected in Solano County

June 9, 2022

SOLANO COUNTY- The Solano County Department of Health and Social Services, Public Health division, the Napa-Solano-Yolo-Marin-Mendocino County Public Health Laboratory, and the Solano County Sheriff’s Animal Control division, has confirmed that a bat has tested positive for the rabies virus. The sample was collected on June 2, 2022 in Fairfield. There are currently no human exposures reported at this time.

Rabies is a severe viral disease that attacks the central nervous system. It is predominantly seen in raccoons, bats and skunks, as well as in dogs and cats, and it can occasionally affect humans, including after being bitten by an infected animal.  Rabies can also be contracted when saliva or spit from a rabid animal gets directly into a person’s eyes, nose, mouth, or a wound.  If exposed to rabies, individuals can be treated with post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), a series of shots that can prevent rabies from developing if received before symptoms present.

"Rabies can be fatal and we urge residents to be cautious around wild animals," said Dr. Christine Wu, M.D., M.P.H., Deputy Health Officer for Solano County. "Residents should take the necessary precautions to reduce the risk of getting an infection by seeking immediate medical attention if bitten by any animal.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urges people to take the following measures to prevent or lessen the risk of infection with rabies by avoiding direct contact with bats.  If you do encounter a bat, or if someone possibly had contact with a bat, contact Solano County Sheriff’s Animal Control division at (707) 784-4733 to help trap the bat for testing. Testing a bat to determine if it is rabid can help to determine whether you need PEP.  You can also contact your doctor to assess whether PEP is needed. 

For more information, visit the Solano County Department of Health and Social Services, Public Health division at SolanoCounty.com/PH and on Facebook at Facebook.com/SolanoCountyPH.  Visit the Solano County Sheriff’s Office of Animal Control division at SolanoCounty.com/AnimalCare and on Facebook at Facebook.com/SolanoAnimalCare.