MN Woman Dead From Rabies After Bat Exposure

Health & Fitness

MN Woman Dead From Rabies After Bat Exposure There have been six rabies previous cases in the state — 1917, 1964, 1975, 2000, 2007, and 2021 — and all were fatal.

MINNESOTA — The Minnesota Department of Health is investigating after a resident died from rabies. The person, who was over the age of 65, was exposed to a bat in western Minnesota in July.

The incident marks Minnesota's fourth case of human rabies since 2000, according to health officials. No other information was given about the case.

There have been six rabies previous cases in the state — 1917, 1964, 1975, 2000, 2007, and 2021 — and all were fatal.

The cases that occurred in 2000 and 2007 were in persons who were bitten by bats but did not seek medical attention, officials said.

The latest diagnosis was confirmed on Sept. 20 with testing from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta.

MDH is working with the patient's family and health care facilities where the patient was treated to evaluate whether any family members or health care workers were potentially exposed and need treatment.

There is no risk to the public, officials said.

"If left untreated, rabies is almost always fatal," the health department said. "Rabies treatment has proven to be nearly 100 percent effective at preventing the disease after an exposure, but it must be started before symptoms of rabies appear."

People with concerns about exposure to rabies can call MDH at (651) 201-5414 during normal business hours or contact their health care provider.