Rabies

Providers and veterinarians must report possible human rabies exposure immediately. Call the reporting line: 360-778-6150.

Encounters with bats, including bites or a bat found in a sleeping area, are considered potential rabies exposures. If available, bats should be sent for testing to the Washington State Public Health Lab. Treatment can usually wait until test results are available. Call the reporting line to arrange for testing.

Guidelines for Human Rabies Prevention

Provides guidance, case definitions and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) information. Helps assess the exposure risk and provides recommended actions for a wide range of scenarios.

View guidelines

Rabies Vaccine Information Statement

Rabies Vaccine Information Statement (VIS).

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Rabies Activity

In Washington, bats are the most common mammal affected by rabies. Rabies is extremely rare in other animals in Washington. Washington State Department of Health publishes a list of bats that have tested positive for rabies in the state this year.

View rabies activity