Rabies Cases on the Rise Nationally, but Mesa County Sees Only One Local Case This Year

Federal health officials recently issued an advisory due to an increase in human exposures to rabid animals across several U.S. jurisdictions. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recorded 17% more rabies-related inquiries between July and August compared to the same period last year, and pharmacy data shows a rise in rabies vaccine and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) utilization.

However, local data from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) does not indicate a significant rise or drop in verified rabid animals in 2026. As of September 9, CDPHE reported 56 animals tested positive for rabies statewide this year. Only one rabid animal, a bat, has been verified in Mesa County this year, according to Mesa County Public Health data.

The single local rabies case in Mesa County occurred in August. A Mesa County Public Health spokesperson confirmed that the affected individual(s) were contacted and evaluated for PEP, though further details could not be disclosed for privacy reasons. Mesa County Public Health data indicates that bats are the primary cause of rabies cases locally, and the county typically tests an average of 30 animals annually.

Looking at historical trends, Mesa County has experienced low numbers of rabies cases. The county reported one case per year in 2021, 2023, and 2024, with zero cases in 2020 and 2022. Last year, Mesa County recorded three cases. This year's single case is in line with the county's average and remains low compared to the broader national increase.

Statewide, the 56 rabid animals identified this year are fewer than the 163 recorded in 2019. Between 2019 and 2023, rabies cases in Colorado decreased to a low of 55. Since then, 58 cases were recorded in 2024, and 69 last year. A CDPHE spokesperson noted that 10 of the confirmed rabid animals this year had suspected contact with people, and 33 had suspected contact with pets. The spokesperson emphasized that “Crucially, exposure does not mean a person contracted rabies,” adding that Colorado has not documented a human case of rabies since 1931.

Most of Colorado’s confirmed rabid animals this year were documented along the Front Range, with Jefferson and Larimer counties each reporting 11 cases, and Boulder County reporting nine cases. On average, CDPHE data from 2019 through 2025 shows roughly 68 rabid animals were identified between the start of each year and the end of August.

Residents are reminded to take precautions to avoid rabies exposure. Mesa County Public Health advises individuals who suffer an animal bite to seek medical attention immediately. All bites are reportable to Mesa County Animal Services at 970-242-4646.

Recognizing the signs of a rabid animal is important. Domesticated animals often exhibit excessive aggression, while wild animals, such as skunks and bats, may appear docile or erratic. To further prevent exposure, Mesa County Public Health recommends that locals ensure pets have up-to-date rabies vaccinations and are licensed with Mesa County Animal Services. Pet owners should restrain their animals to prevent confrontations with wildlife and contact a veterinarian if a pet has suspected contact with a wild animal. Furthermore, residents should stay away from wild animals, whether dead or alive, and avoid trying to rescue hurt or sick wildlife. If a bat or other wild animal is found inside a home, contact Mesa County Animal Services.