A bat found dead last month near Irvine’s Meadowood Park has tested positive for rabies, adding to a growing number of infected bats throughout Orange County. Orange County Health Care Agency (HCA) officials report 33 rabies-positive bats in 2026, which more than doubles the 2025 total of 16 recorded cases.
The bat was discovered on September 28 at approximately 4:45 p.m. between 18 Wedgewood and 28 Whispering Pine in the Northwood Pointe neighborhood. The HCA issued a public health notice on October 2, asking anyone who may have come into contact with the bat to contact the agency.
In response to questions from The Vine, HCA confirmed that the bat was dead when found. The agency does not have information about its species. Officials also said they do not have information about whether any people or pets were exposed, explaining that public notices are issued to reach anyone who may have had contact with an infected animal…