Public health officials in San Diego County are looking for individuals who might have come in contact with a wild bat found on the streets of Oceanside. The bat, which has since tested positive for rabies, was discovered last Friday along Westport Dr., nestled between Point Sur and Marina Del Rey Ave. There's an urgent request for anyone who came into direct contact with the bat, or knows someone who may have, to reach out to County Public Health Services at (619) 692-8499 without delay.
Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan, a public health officer for the county, underscored the serious nature of rabies in humans, stating, "Human rabies is usually fatal without prompt post-exposure vaccine and treatment." The danger of transmission comes not just from bat bites but also exposure to a bat's saliva through cuts or contact with mucus membranes. As per the County of San Diego, Dr. Thihalolipavan highlighted respecting wildlife while maintaining a safe distance to prevent such incidents.
This incident marks the seventh rabid bat detection in the county for 2025. San Diego County is home to various bat species, from those that consume pesky insects like mosquitoes to nectar-feeding bats that help pollinate plants. Residents might spot bats around dusk, their most active time, but are reminded to appreciate these creatures from a distance and never to touch them. In case of accidental contact, the best action is to wash the area with soap and water and immediately seek medical attention.
