In a tragic and rare occurrence, a Northern Kentucky resident has died from human rabies, according to health officials. This case marks a concerning reminder of the dangers associated with the rabies virus, which remains one of the deadliest diseases in the world.
Unclear Source of Infection
The Kentucky Department of Public Health (KDPH) released a statement on Friday confirming the death, though the source of the infection remains unknown. Health officials have speculated that the individual may have contracted rabies during international travel, though investigations are still ongoing.
Rabies, though rare in humans, is a serious viral disease that affects the brain and is almost always fatal if left untreated. The individual received medical treatment in both Kentucky and Ohio, with state health departments collaborating alongside the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to track the case and identify the exposure source.
The Dangers of Rabies
KDPH Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack emphasized the importance of immediate treatment after a suspected rabies exposure. “Rabies is a rare but serious disease caused by a virus that infects the brain,” Dr. Stack said. “Unfortunately, if left untreated, rabies is usually fatal. Immediate medical care after a suspected exposure to rabies is critical, as rabies treatment called post-exposure prophylaxis, or PEP, is nearly 100% effective at preventing rabies.”
Rabies is most commonly transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, with bats, raccoons, and skunks being the primary culprits in the United States. Human-to-human transmission is extremely rare, though health departments are ensuring that anyone who had close contact with the individual receives proper medical evaluation.
History of Rabies in Kentucky
This incident is particularly rare in Kentucky, where the last known case of rabies infection in a resident occurred back in 1996. Health officials are working diligently to investigate and ensure that no further cases arise from this exposure.
The news of this case serves as an important reminder to those traveling internationally to be aware of potential rabies risks and to seek medical care immediately if bitten or scratched by an animal in areas where rabies is more common.
