Full Notification

On Tuesday, May 26, 2026, Alameda County Vector Control collected a bat in the area of Palo Verde Common in South Fremont.  On May 28, 2026, Alameda County Vector Control confirmed that the bat tested positive for the rabies virus. The bat was discovered near a sidewalk within reachable distance of pedestrians and animals; however, at this time, there are no known human or animal exposures associated with this incident.
 
Alameda County Vector Control is the lead agency investigating this incident and leafleted the immediate area where the bat was found. The County has provided the following information, which is helpful not only for this specific incident but also for general awareness of rabies and how it spreads.
 
Rabies is a fatal disease caused by a virus that affects the brain and nervous system. It is preventable if the exposed person or animal receives a series of rabies vaccine shots as soon as possible after exposure.  Anyone who touched or may have been bitten by this bat should call the Alameda County Public Health Acute Communicable Disease Program at 510-267-3250 and should immediately seek medical care from a health provider. If your pet had any contact with a bat in this area, please call Fremont Animal Services at 510-790-6635 and contact your veterinarian right away.
 
Humans and pets should avoid contact with bats and other wild animals that can carry rabies, including skunks, foxes, coyotes, and raccoons.  Unvaccinated dogs and cats are considered to be at medium to high risk of contracting and potentially spreading the rabies virus. If you find a sick or dead animal, do not touch it. Please report the behavior to Fremont Animal Services or the Alameda County Public Health Department.
 
Here are a few preventative measures you can take to reduce your risk:

• Vaccinate all dogs and cats against rabies.
• Keep dogs confined to your property, especially puppies under 3 months.
• Report animal bites of humans.
• Avoid feeding or handling wild animals, even if they appear sick or injured.
• Remove outdoor pet food, which can attract skunks and other wildlife.
• Eliminate hiding spots by clearing trash, woodpiles, dense vegetation, and hollow logs.
• Bat-proof your home by sealing any openings larger than ¼ inch, especially near the roof. Use ¼ inch mesh to screen attic vents and keep them well-maintained.

 
If you find a sick or dead bat in your home or yard, do not touch it. It is very important to avoid any direct contact. To report dead or sick wildlife, please call Fremont Animal Services at 510-790-6635 or Alameda County Vector Control at 510-567-6800. For any human exposure or public health concerns, please call the Alameda County Public Health Care Agency at 510-267-3250.

Incident: Rabid Bat
Date of Incident: May 26, 2026
Location: Palo Verde Common Area in South Fremont
Contact: [email protected]