ARAPAHOE COUNTY, Colo — Rabid bats have been found in Arapahoe and El Paso counties. The bats are the first to be discovered with rabies in each of the Colorado counties in 2024. In Arapahoe County , a bat found near Quincy Avenue and Santa Fe Drive in Englewood tested positive.

Two people were exposed to the bat and have begun treatment to prevent infection and illness. In El Paso County, a bat found at Grant Elementary School in northeast Colorado Springs has also been confirmed to have rabies. El Paso County Public Health (EPCPH) said the bat was found on the ground May 14 and tested positive May 17.

There are no known exposures between the bat and any students or staff at the school. Rabies is an infectious viral disease that affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal unless it is treated before symptoms appear. Last year, according to data from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment , there were 55 cases of rabies in Colorado, and 47 of those were in bats.

“Bats naturally live in our region and can be found anywhere in and around our county,” said Dr. Bernadette Albanese, co-medical director of El Paso County Public Health. “During the summer months, we typically see more cases of rabies among wildlife, including bats.

With the warmer days and folks spending more time outdoors, it’s possible for people or pets to encounter a bat. Remember a few simple steps to prevent being exposed to rabies: do not interact or touch any wild animal.