Rabies-Infested Bats Attack Polk County, Florida

People, Pets On Edge

Published: September 17, 2026, 8:18 AM PDT

Live bats with rabies are flying around a county in Florida, causing alarm among locals and their pets! Reports indicate that 6 rabies-infested bats have been haunting residents in Polk County since March, and the situation is becoming increasingly concerning.

Recently, a woman mistook what she thought was a dead mouse for a bat on the ground — a chilling reminder of the presence of these infected creatures in the area. Fortunately, no humans have been bitten yet; however, several cats and dogs that interacted with the bats have suffered bites and contracted rabies.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that all infected animals must undergo vaccination and quarantine at their homes. In a bid to raise awareness, they shared images of the bats’ carcasses, which were sent to a facility in Tampa for rabies testing before being disposed of.

Polk County is actively working to manage the growing bat problem and keep its residents safe.