Current Activity

• A total of 6 bats from Ventura County tested positive for rabies in 2024.
• For additional animal rabies data in California, by county and species, visit CDPH’s website.

About

• CDPH: Rabies
• CDC: Rabies

Prevention

• Vaccinate pets against the rabies virus and keep them up to date on their shots.
• Respect wildlife by maintaining a distance. Do not approach, touch, or try to feed any animals that you don’t know.
• Seal holes or gaps in your home where bats and other animals could enter.

Reporting and Monitoring

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal that may be infected with rabies, or if you have any direct contact with a bat:

• Wash the wound and/or area right away with soap and water, then talk to a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
• Do not wait until symptoms appear to seek care.
• A doctor can help decide if you need post exposure treatment and a vaccine to prevent rabies. ​

If you find a bat on the ground that looks sick or dead, call Ventura County Animal Services at (805)388-4341 for guidance, as these animals can harbor the rabies virus.

Educational Materials

• CDPH: Rabies brochure – English | Spanish

Resources for Medical Providers

• Ventura County Animal Services – Animal Bite Reporting Form
• California Compendium of Rabies Control and Prevention
• CDC: Clinical Overview of Rabies
• CDC: Rabies Pre- and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis