MINIDOKA COUNTY, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — A bat in Minidoka County tested positive for rabies, according to a release from the South Central Public Health District (SCPHD).

This is the first rabies-infected bat to test positive in South Central Idaho; there have been other cases in Idaho in 2025.

The rabies virus can cause a nearly fatal disease in both humans and animals. Dogs, cats and horses need rabies vaccinations.

“Bat bites are extremely small and hard to see. Any suspected exposure should be taken seriously as rabies is nearly always fatal,” said Jacob Ward, SCPHD Epidemiology Program Manager. “If you have contact with a bat, or find one in your home, it’s important you contact your health care provider right away and ask about treatment.”

Most bats do not carry rabies, but they are

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