Bat rescued from Raleigh lake tests positive for rabies, marking third case this year

A bat that was pulled from Shelley Lake in Raleigh after appearing to drown was later confirmed to carry rabies, according to the Raleigh Police Department. The animal died while being transported to a wildlife rehabilitator in Charlotte and was subsequently sent back to Raleigh for testing, which returned a positive result. This is the second bat and the third overall rabies case identified in Raleigh this year.

Police said there was minimal contact between the bat and the two individuals who attempted to assist it, and both the people and the local health department have been notified. State Veterinarian Michael Martin emphasized that while the risk of transmission to humans is low, rabies is lethal and requires serious attention.

The incident follows a recent outbreak involving four rabid goats linked to a traveling petting zoo, which generated more than 100 possible human exposures across several counties. Wake County health officials reminded residents to avoid handling unknown animals, keep pets up to date on rabies vaccinations, and seek veterinary care promptly if a pet contacts a potentially infected animal.

Local visitors said the episode has heightened their awareness of wildlife. > "I'll definitely be more aware of little animals walking around," Shelley Lake visitor Veronica Jackson said. > "It's not going to stop me from coming," visitor Tina Dahir added, noting she will keep a safe distance from bats.