SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — County health officials confirmed Thursday that a bat found in a San Mateo County park has tested positive for rabies.
On Oct. 24, a bat was found near the Little People’s Park playground at Portola Valley Town Center, officials said.
“Encounters with rabid animals in San Mateo County are very rare, but we take every case seriously,” said Dr. Kismet Baldwin-Santana, San Mateo County health officer. “Never touch a bat or other wild animal, even if it looks sick or injured, and keep your pets’ rabies vaccinations up to date.”
SMC Health officials urges anyone with bat contact to see a doctor immediately due to rabies risk. No treatment exists once symptoms appear. Currently, no exposures are identified.
Rabies is a deadly, preventable viral disease spread through infected animal saliva. Humans and pets can contract it via bites or, rarely, through contact with saliva or brain tissue on broken skin or eyes, nose or mouth.
San Mateo County Health investigates positive animal rabies tests, contacting exposed individuals for medical attention. If exposures are unknown, public notices are posted.
San Mateo County averages two rabid bats yearly. In 2025, two bats have tested positive, including one found in Half Moon Bay on October 24, with no remaining risk.
If anyone had contact with a bat at Little People’s Park at Portola Valley Town Center on Oct. 24, health officials advise they contact their medical provider.
Bats that appear sick, injured or dead should be reported to the Peninsula Humane Society at 650-340-7022.
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