A Michigan resident has died from rabies after undergoing an organ transplant at a hospital in Ohio in December 2024. The patient, who was not a Michigan or Ohio resident, contracted the disease through the transplanted organ, according to health officials.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that the patient had been exposed to wild animal saliva, which led to the transmission of rabies. However, the donor did not seek medical attention and died without showing traditional symptoms of the disease.
In an effort to prevent further transmission, public health officials assessed individuals who came into contact with the deceased patient, including healthcare providers, for potential exposure to rabies. Those deemed at risk received post-exposure prophylaxis shots.
The University of Toledo Medical Center in Ohio confirmed that the patient was one of their patients and underwent a deceased donor organ transplant. The hospital stated that they followed all safety protocols and procedures to prevent transmission of rabies.
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that can be spread through animal bites or scratches. According to the CDC, post-exposure prophylaxis is highly effective if administered promptly after exposure. However, once symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Health/michigan-resident-dies-rabies-after-undergoing-organ-transplant/story?id=120217114