Hundreds May Have Been Exposed to Rabies in Grand Teton Park Cabins

Hundreds of people may have been exposed to rabies after staying in bat-infested cabins at Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park.

Health officials revealed that the historic Colter Bay Village cabins were recently found to be infested with bats, which are known carriers of the deadly rabies virus. Because bats can bite or scratch people while they are asleep—sometimes without being noticed—anyone who stayed in the cabins over the past two months could be at risk.

Rabies is rare in the U.S., but it is almost always fatal once symptoms begin. The good news is that it can be prevented if treatment, known as post-exposure prophylaxis, is started quickly.

Authorities are contacting visitors who may have been exposed and urging them to seek immediate medical advice. The affected cabins have since been closed while wildlife experts work to make them safe.

Health officials warn that anyone who stayed in the cabins recently should not ignore the risk and should consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible.