Minnesota Reports Rare Human Death from Rabies, Public Urged to Take Precautions with Bats
MINNESOTA — The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is investigating a rare human death from rabies, following a bat exposure in western Minnesota earlier this year. The individual, over 65 years of age, had contact with a bat in July and was diagnosed with rabies on September 20 after testing by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta. This is only the fourth reported human rabies case in Minnesota since 2000.
While the patient’s death is tragic, officials emphasize there is no risk to the public. MDH is working with the patient’s family and healthcare facilities to ensure that anyone potentially exposed, including family members and healthcare workers, is evaluated and treated if necessary.
This case serves as a stark reminder that bats in Minnesota can carry rabies. Health officials are urging the public to avoid physical contact with bats and take immediate steps if exposure occurs. MDH stresses that even small encounters, such as finding a bat in a sleeping person’s room or near an unattended child, warrant concern. Bats should be safely captured and tested for rabies, as their bites can be undetectable due to their tiny teeth.
“If a bat cannot be captured for testing, it is critical to contact a healthcare provider or MDH as soon as possible,” MDH officials said. “Rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear, but timely treatment after exposure is almost 100% effective.”
Rabies post-exposure treatment involves an injection of rabies immune globulin followed by a series of four rabies vaccinations over two weeks. While the cost of treatment can be significant, patients can inquire about assistance programs through their healthcare providers. Health officials also reminded residents to vaccinate their pets and livestock against rabies, including dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, cattle, and sheep. Dr. Stacy Holzbauer, State Public Health Veterinarian, emphasized that rabies vaccinations play a key role in preventing the spread of the virus from animals to humans.
The rabies virus has drastically decreased its toll in the U.S. since the early 1900s, when over 100 deaths occurred annually. Today, fewer than five deaths are reported each year, with most cases linked to bat exposure. In Minnesota, fatal rabies cases were reported in 1917, 1964, 1975, 2000, 2007, and 2021. Notably, the 2000 and 2007 cases involved individuals bitten by bats who did not seek medical attention.
As World Rabies Day approaches on September 28, MDH is using this opportunity to raise awareness about rabies prevention and the importance of recognizing potential exposures.
For more information on rabies or how to submit a bat for testing, visit the MDH website. Anyone concerned about possible rabies exposure should contact MDH at 651-201-5414 or consult their healthcare provider.
Cover photo credit: Photo by Denley Photography on Unsplash
Written by: Will Wight
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