MI Confirms First 2026 Rabies Case

Michigan health officials confirmed the state's first positive rabies case on Friday.

The disease was found in a bat in the Charlotte area in Eaton County, according to health officials.

In 2025, Michigan confirmed more than 40 rabies-positive animal cases, the vast majority were bats.

Rabies is a fatal but preventable viral disease. It spreads to people and pets if they are bitten or scratched by a rabid animal, usually by raccoons, skunks, bats and foxes.

The virus infects the central nervous system, resulting in disease within the brain and then death. If a person is exposed to rabies, the disease can be prevented with a series of shots before symptoms occur.

Health officials reminded residents of the following rabies prevention measures:

• Make sure all open doors and windows have screens to prevent bats from entering your home. Check for other small openings, especially in older homes. Bats can enter through holes the size of a dime.
• If you are bitten or scratched by a stray or wild animal, clean the bite or scratch wound immediately with soap and water and seek immediate medical attention.
• Keep all pets, including cats, dogs, ferrets, and horses, up to date on rabies vaccines.