From July through August, the CDC received 17% more rabies-related inquiries than during the same period in 2025, including reports of incidents involving multiple people. At least eight state health departments also reported increased use of rabies post-exposure prophylaxis, or preventive medical treatment given after a potential exposure.
County officials said rabies risk occurs when someone has direct contact with a bat, including touching, holding or being bitten by one. Anyone who had direct contact with the bat found at the Safari Park should call the county’s Epidemiology Unit at 619-692-8499.