Charlotte, July 29, 2025
News Summary
A rabies alert has been issued in north Charlotte after two bats tested positive for the virus. Health officials confirmed two people and two pets were exposed, emphasizing vaccination and community awareness. This incident marks additional rabies cases in Mecklenburg County, highlighting ongoing public health concerns. Residents in the affected area have been notified and are urged to take precautions.
Charlotte
A rabies alert has been issued for residents in north Charlotte following the confirmation that two bats tested positive for the disease. The bats were discovered near Arbor Creek Drive, prompting health officials to take swift action to protect the public.
As a result of these findings, two individuals and two domestic pets have been identified as having been exposed to the rabies virus. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control has verified these exposures, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness and encouraging precautions among local residents.
Residents living in the 28269 zip code, which encompasses parts of north Charlotte, will receive an alert notification regarding the rabies situation. This marks the fourth and fifth cases of rabies reported in Mecklenburg County this year, highlighting a growing concern in the region.
Prior to this incident, three raccoons in various zip codes (28105, 28211, and 28227) also tested positive for rabies. In the previous year, 2024, there were a total of 14 reported rabies exposures within Mecklenburg County, including one case in the 28269 area involving a raccoon.
The Mecklenburg County Department of Public Health is actively monitoring the situation and encourages residents to remain vigilant. Questions concerning potential human exposure to rabies can be directed to a dedicated phone line at (980) 598-9424, where assistance and information are available.
Residents are reminded to keep their pets vaccinated and to avoid contact with wild animals, as these measures are crucial in preventing the spread of rabies within the community. Anyone who suspects they may have been exposed to rabies or has concerns should seek medical advice promptly.
Background on Rabies in Mecklenburg County
Rabies is a viral disease that can be fatal if left untreated. It is typically transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. Bats are among the most common carriers of the rabies virus, and their sightings near residential areas raise potential risks for human exposure.
The state of North Carolina has experienced periodic outbreaks of rabies in various wildlife species, contributing to public health alerts such as this recent one in Charlotte. Local health officials work to educate the public on safe interactions with wildlife and the importance of rabies vaccination for pets.
In Mecklenburg County, the past few years have shown a concerning trend with multiple rabies cases reported, underscoring the need for continuous community awareness and health measures.
Summary of Key Details
- Alert issued after two bats test positive for rabies.
- Two individuals and two pets exposed in north Charlotte.
- Fourth and fifth rabies cases in 2025 for Mecklenburg County.
- Previous cases involved raccoons in nearby zip codes.
- Residents can contact local authorities for information.
FAQ
What should I do if I suspect my pet has been exposed to rabies?
If you suspect your pet has been exposed to rabies, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice and potential vaccination or treatment options.
How can I protect myself and my pets from rabies?
To protect yourself and your pets from rabies, keep your pets vaccinated, avoid contact with wild animals, and report any suspicious animal behavior to local authorities.
What are the symptoms of rabies in humans?
Symptoms of rabies in humans can include fever, headache, confusion, agitation, and hallucinations. As the disease progresses, it can lead to paralysis and death.
Key Features of the Rabies Alert
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | North Charlotte (28269 zip code) |
| Recent Cases | Two bats tested positive |
| Exposures | Two people, two domestic pets |
| Previous Cases in 2025 | Fourth and fifth cases reported |
| Previous Year Rabies Exposures | 14 reported in 2024 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Raccoon Tests Positive for Rabies in Mint Hill
Additional Resources
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
