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Wyoming Authorities Contact Hundreds of Grand Teton Lodge Guests Over Rabies Risk

The outreach follows negative rabies tests on captured bats that nevertheless left exposure risk uncertain.

Overview

  • A suspected bat colony was found in the attic space above eight rooms at Jackson Lake Lodge, leading to their closure as a precaution.
  • The Wyoming Department of Health is contacting guests who booked those rooms between May 15 and July 27 to complete individualized rabies exposure questionnaires.
  • Despite negative rabies test results from all captured bats, officials emphasize that risk cannot be eliminated and assessments will guide next steps.
  • Health agencies are working with the National Park Service, CDC and local departments, and clinicians will decide on postexposure prophylaxis based on each guest’s risk category.
  • The Park Service and Grand Teton Lodge Company are planning enhanced mitigation measures and communication protocols to prevent future bat intrusions.