The third rabies case for 2026 has been confirmed in Polk County as of April 11, 2026.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office reported that this latest case involved a Brazilian free-tailed bat found inside a home within the city limits of Bartow.
Case Details
- Location: Bartow, FL.
- The Incident: On Wednesday, April 8, a family’s cat was discovered near a live bat inside their residence.
- Current Status: While officials do not believe the cat made direct contact with the bat, the pet has been placed under quarantine as a precaution. The bat was sent to the State Laboratory in Tampa, where it tested positive.+1
Summary of 2026 Cases
All three confirmed cases in the county this year have involved bats:
- Late March: A bat was found in Lake Wales (Masterpiece Road area).
- March 31: A bat was found inside a home southwest of Lakeland.
- April 11: The current Bartow case.
Important Safety Reminders
Sheriff Grady Judd and local health officials are urging residents to:
Report Exposure: If you or your pet are bitten, scratched, or come into contact with a wild animal, contact Polk County Animal Control at 863-577-1762. found inside a home within the city limits of Bartow.
Vaccinate Pets: Ensure all dogs, cats, and ferrets are up to date on rabies vaccinations, even if they stay indoors.
Avoid Wildlife: Do not touch or approach any wild animal, especially bats, or animals acting unusually or aggressively.