A live bat found on 8th Street in the Eloise area of Winter Haven has tested positive for rabies, marking Polk County’s sixth confirmed animal rabies case of 2026.
Key Incident Details
- The Incident: On Thursday, September 10, a resident picked up an animal in her yard after mistaking it for a mouse, only to realize it was a live bat.
- Testing: Animal Control Officers recovered the bat and sent the carcass to a state laboratory. Test results received on September 15 confirmed the animal was rabid.
- Medical Follow-Up: Officials notified the resident and advised her to contact the Florida Department of Health immediately to receive post-exposure medical treatment.
Public Safety Guidance
- Do Not Touch Wildlife: Never handle wild animals, especially bats or raccoons, even if they appear injured, unable to fly, or unusually docile. Bat bites and scratches can be extremely small and go unnoticed.
- Report Exposure: If you or a pet come into contact with a wild, stray, or unusually acting animal, contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Section at 863-577-1762
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