Number of rabid animals in California skyrockets to the most cases in nearly 30 years

California has seen the number of rabid animals skyrocket, with the most cases in nearly 30 years, according to state officials. At least 368 rabid animals were found in the Golden State so far this year, breaking a 28-year record, the California Veterinary Medical Association announced Saturday. Most of the rabid animals were bats or skunks from Southern California, according to the veterinary association. San Diego County health officials sounded the alarm in July after a rabid bat landed on the table where a family was eating lunch at the rustic Yellow Deli chain in Vista. Another diner quickly grabbed the bat with a towel and brought it to the Humane Society in Oceanside.Last month, local health officials reported the first two raccoons to test positive for rabies in Los Angeles County in more than 50 years. At least 368 rabid animals were found in the Golden State so far this year, breaking a 28-year record, the California Veterinary Medical Association announced Saturday (Getty Images)The first raccoon was found in someone’s backyard in the Westlake Village area, officials said on October 5. The raccoon reportedly appeared sick but not aggressive toward people. Four people at a worksite may have been exposed to the raccoon and were receiving emergency treatment. The second raccoon was discovered near the first one and appeared sick and aggressive, officials said on October 23. Two people at a worksite may have been exposed to the second raccoon, and they were also treated. “The risk to the public remains low, with the last human death reported in California being in 2024,” the California Veterinary Medical Association wrote in a Facebook post announcing the record-breaking rabies cases.Rabies is a viral disease that is typically spread through the saliva of an infected animal. It attacks the central nervous system, and once symptoms appear, it is almost always fatal. That is why it’s important to seek medical attention immediately if someone thinks they may have been exposed to a rabid animal. “You can prevent rabies by keeping away from wildlife and vaccinating your pets,” the veterinary association said. “If you have been bitten and scratched by wildlife or an unfamiliar animal, seek out urgent medical care.”