Rabies Resources for Providers

What is rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease of the nervous system that is nearly 100% fatal. It is spread through bites of infected animals.

Rabies in humans is extremely rare in the United States but causes thousands of deaths each year worldwide. Most rabies deaths occur from dog bites in areas of the world where animal vaccination programs are not well developed.

In Washington, bats are the most common mammal affected by rabies. Rabies is extremely rare in other animals in Washington. Providers and veterinarians must report possible human rabies exposure immediately.

Refer to the following resources for more information on potential exposure
WA State Dept. Of Health: Assessment of Rabies Exposure from Animal Contact and Guidance on Post-Exposure Prophylaxis
WA State Dept. of Health: Rabies, Suspected Human Exposures
National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians (NASPHV): Rabies Compendium
CDC: Information for Healthcare Providers

Encounters with bats, including bites or a bat found in a sleeping area, are considered potential rabies exposures. If available, bats should be sent for testing to the Washington State Public Health Lab. Treatment can usually be deferred until test results are available. Cowlitz County Health & Human Services is available to discuss cases with providers, please call 360-414-5599.

To report, visit our Report Notifiable Conditions page. Our communicable disease team is available to answer questions!  Call us at 360-414-5599.

Additional resources are available on the WA State Dept. of Health rabies resources page.