Rabies Alert Issued After Bat Found at Providence Zoo

September 12, 2026 - 12:31

Health officials in Rhode Island are warning the public after a bat tested positive for rabies at a zoo in Providence last month. The infected animal was discovered at the facility, prompting authorities to urge anyone who may have had contact with it to seek medical attention right away.

Rabies is a serious viral disease that affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. It spreads mainly through bites or scratches from infected animals, though contact with saliva or nervous tissue can also transmit the virus. Bats are among the most common carriers in the region, and their small bites can sometimes go unnoticed.

Officials recommend that anyone who touched or handled a bat, or who finds one inside a home, contact the state health department immediately. Post exposure treatment is highly effective when started soon after exposure. Pet owners should also confirm their animals are up to date on rabies vaccinations, since unvaccinated pets can easily become infected and pass the virus to people.

The zoo has not reported any additional cases, and the risk to the general public remains low. Still, health experts say the situation is a reminder to never approach wild animals, especially bats, and to report any unusual behavior to local authorities. Anyone with questions about possible exposure should call the Rhode Island Department of Health for guidance.