NewsFox 5 San Diego & KUSI — Local NewsSeptember 11, 2026San Diego County
San Diego County reports record-high rabid bats and increased local exposures
Photo: Fox 5 San Diego & KUSI — Local News
San Diego County health officials reported a record-high number of rabid bats found this year, following a recent discovery near the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This surge mirrors a national trend identified by the CDC regarding increased human rabies exposures.
Read the full story at Fox 5 San Diego & KUSI — Local NewsWhy It Matters
Residents face an increased risk of rabies exposure from bats locally, which requires heightened caution around wildlife.
Key Facts
- San Diego County health officials reported a record-high number of rabid bats found so far this year.
- An infected bat was recently discovered near the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
- The local surge in rabid bats mirrors a national trend identified by the CDC.
- The CDC trend involves increased human rabies exposures.
Who's Mentioned
PersonSayone Thihalolipavan“County Public Health Officer, MD, MPH”OrganizationCounty's Epidemiology unit“Contact point for individuals who may have had direct contact with the Safari Pa”locationSan Diego County“Health officials reporting the record-high number of rabid bats”locationCalifornia“State where all dogs are required to be vaccinated against rabies”OrganizationCDC“Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting a national increase in huma”locationSan Diego Zoo Safari Park“Location where a rabid bat was discovered on Sept. 6 at 11:30 a.m.”locationSan Diego“Location where rabid bats were found and county health data originates”locationMombasa Restaurant“Location near where a dead rabid bat was found at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park”