Rabid Bat Discovery at Gene Coulon Park Prompts Health Advisory
Park staff discovered a rabid bat near a playground at Gene Coulon Park in Renton, Washington, prompting health officials to advise individuals who may have had contact with the animal to seek medical attention.
Seattle Tacoma, WA, July 31, 2026 —
Health officials in Renton, Washington, have issued an advisory following the discovery of a rabid bat at Gene Coulon Park. The potentially infectious animal was found by park staff near a playground area.
The Washington State Department of Health and the Public Health – Seattle & King County are urging anyone who may have had physical contact with the bat, or who believes they or a family member may have been exposed, to seek immediate medical advice. Exposure can occur through bites, scratches, or if the bat was in close proximity to an unattended child or a sleeping person.
While the exact timeline of the bat’s presence and potential exposure incidents was not immediately clear, the discovery led to a swift public health response. Health authorities emphasize that rabies is a preventable disease if post-exposure prophylaxis is administered promptly. The bat has been submitted for rabies testing.
The specific area where the bat was found is near the Gene Coulon Park playground. Officials have not indicated any park closures but are advising park visitors to be aware of their surroundings and to avoid contact with wildlife, especially bats, which can carry the rabies virus.
Details regarding the specific type of bat or the exact date of discovery were not provided. Residents who have concerns about potential exposure are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or the local health department for guidance.
Story summarized from the original created by Ramsey.Pfeffinger@fox.com (Ramsey Pfeffinger) on www.fox13seattle.com, see more information here.
