Rabies exposure alert at Grand Teton lodge

Health officials warn that more than 200 guests may have been exposed to rabies after bats were found in the attic of a Jackson Lake Lodge hotel near Grand Teton National Park.

Bat colony prompts rabies exposure alert at Grand Teton lodge

Health officials in Wyoming say more than 200 guests who stayed in eight rooms at Jackson Lake Lodge between May 15 and July 27 may have been exposed to rabies after bat activity was detected in the attic. The National Park Service confirmed a bat colony is present above the rooms, and eight encounters with bats led to the closure of rooms 516, 518, 520, 522, 524, 526, 528 and 530. The health department is contacting the affected guests to assess exposure and advise on next steps. Rabies is a serious disease, but officials stressed that exposure risk varies and remains comparatively low for most visitors, while bites or scratches from bats can be hard to notice.

In Wyoming, the most common bat species is the small brown bat, and bites or scratches might not be visible or painful. Public health officials say people should follow guidance on monitoring for symptoms and seeking medical advice if they think they may have been exposed. The incident shows how wildlife in park areas can intersect with hotel operations and how authorities coordinate to trace exposed individuals and minimize risk.

This incident shows how a popular park area can become a shared space for wildlife and visitors. It also highlights the need for clear, prompt communication when a potential exposure occurs so guests can act quickly. The response blends cautious public health messaging with practical hotel operations, a balance that will shape trust in the park and its services. The broader question is whether such scares will affect tourism and how wildlife management will be funded in peak seasons.

The event underscores the value of quick contact tracing and targeted outreach. It may push venues to invest in wildlife-proofing and better notification systems, especially in travel-heavy periods.

Highlights

Public health officials will keep guests informed as the investigation and follow-up care continue.