A Minnesota resident over the age of 65 has died from rabies after exposure to a bat in July, as confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on September 20. This rare case highlights that fewer than 10 people die from rabies in the US each year.
The Minnesota Department of Health is investigating potential further exposures, but there is no ongoing public health threat. Officials are advising the public to avoid contact with bats, whose bites can be difficult to detect, as rabies can be transmitted through small, unnoticed bites or scratches.
Rabies, a virus that attacks the central nervous system, is almost always fatal if untreated. However, prompt treatment after exposure can effectively prevent the disease from progressing. Vaccinating pets remains a key prevention measure.
Rabies control and prevention
Vaccinating pets reduces the risk of transmission to humans, and common carriers include bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. Public health officials urge people to avoid contact with wild animals, especially injured ones, and contact animal control for assistance.
Travelers to countries where rabies in dogs is common should stay away from animals with unknown vaccination histories and check local rabies risks.
Rabies treatment
Rabies is preventable with prompt medical care. If bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal, seek immediate medical attention. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), a series of vaccines, is highly effective if given before symptoms appear.
Once symptoms develop, rabies is almost always fatal, making quick treatment essential.
[With inputs from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ABC News]
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