A bat in Minidoka County tested positive for rabies this week, marking the first confirmed case in south-central Idaho this year, health officials announced Wednesday.

The South Central Public Health District has asked residents to stay aware of their surroundings, keep pets current on rabies vaccines and report any bats acting strangely.

“While most bats are harmless and do not carry rabies, they are the only animal in Idaho to naturally carry the virus,” the Health District stated. “Most animals, including household pets, can become exposed to the virus by interacting with sick bats.”

On average, about 16 rabid bats are reported statewide each year, according to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Four rabid bats have been documented in Blaine County since 2015—one each in 20

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