A bat found at the bottom of the Grand Canyon has tested positive for rabies. The bat was collected near Phantom Ranch, the popular lodge and canteen, on Aug. 31.
Grand Canyon National Park now has confirmation that the bat had rabies, but said the animal did not come in contact with any visitors. Recently, park users say they’ve been seeing more bats, especially around the Colorado River. Anyone who has had physical contact with a bat is advised to seek medical attention and be assessed for medical treatment.
Rabid bats have been documented in 49 states, and every year, cases of rabies in animals are reported in Northern Arizona.
Except for a few isolated cases, rabies is always fatal if a vaccine is not administered soon after exposure.
