San Diego Zoo Safari Park Rabies Exposure Alert
San Diego County health officials are urging visitors to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park to monitor for potential rabies exposure after a wild bat discovered near the Oasis on the Rocks restaurant on July 11 tested positive for the virus. While the park confirmed the bat was not part of their animal collection and no human contact has been reported, officials are requesting that anyone who had physical contact with the animal come forward for medical evaluation.
Understanding Rabies Risks at Public Facilities
According to Dr. Ankita Kadakia, the county’s deputy public health officer, rabies remains one of the deadliest viral diseases, with a nearly 100% fatality rate if not treated before symptoms appear. The County Public Health Laboratory confirmed the positive test result, marking the 19th bat to test positive in San Diego County this year. For context, county officials reported that 21 bats tested positive for the virus during the entirety of 2025.
Did you know?
While bats are essential for local ecosystems—with some species consuming up to 1,000 mosquito-sized insects per hour—they are also one of the primary carriers of rabies in the United States, according to Dr. Brian Collins of the Cornell Riney Canine Health Center.
Safety Protocols for Wildlife Encounters
Wildlife experts emphasize that while bat sightings are common, direct interaction should always be avoided. Dr. Alexis Wohl, wildlife veterinary manager at the San Diego Humane Society, notes that even though rabies is rare in the general bat population, the public should never handle these animals with bare hands. If a visitor encounters a bat in a public space, the recommended protocol is to keep people and pets at a safe distance and immediately notify property management, local law enforcement, or animal control.
Immediate Actions Following Potential Exposure
If physical contact with a bat is suspected, Dr. Brian Collins advises that the affected area must be washed thoroughly with soap and water for 10 to 15 minutes. Because rabies treatment is highly time-sensitive, seeking medical care immediately is critical to prevent the onset of the disease.
You are not at risk for rabies if you have had no physical contact with a bat, according to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Visual sightings from a distance do not require medical intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I think I touched a bat at the park?
Wash the contact area with soap and water for at least 10 minutes and contact local health authorities immediately for an evaluation.
Are all bats in San Diego County infected with rabies?
No. While 19 bats have tested positive so far this year, rabies is relatively rare in the wild population. However, all wild bats should be treated as potential carriers.
Is it safe to visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park?
Yes. Officials note that visitors who do not have physical contact with wild bats are not at risk.
Have you encountered wildlife in public parks? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below. To stay updated on public health alerts and regional news, subscribe to our newsletter here.
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