What are the chances of getting rabies from a bat?

Bats can have rabies, but it is extremely rare for that to impact humans. The chance of getting rabies from a bat is very small — the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says there are one or two cases a year in the U.S. But bats are the most common source of human rabies in the United States.

Do you need a rabies shot if a bat touches you?

If your pet has had contact with a bat, it's also very important to try to capture the bat, if possible, so that it can be tested for rabies. Dogs and cats that have had contact with a bat should get a rabies booster vaccine right away, even if they are current on their rabies vaccination.