A rare case of human rabies has claimed the life of a Northern Kentucky resident, according to health officials. The Kentucky Department of Public Health reported a fatality from rabies exposure, but the cause remains unclear. The individual may have contracted the disease during international travel and received treatment in both Kentucky and Ohio.
According to Dr. Steven Stack, KDPH Commissioner, “Rabies is a rare but serious disease caused by a virus that infects the brain.” He emphasized the importance of immediate medical care after a suspected exposure to rabies, as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is nearly 100% effective in preventing the disease.
Human-to-human transmission is rare, but health departments are working to assess and provide treatment to those who were in contact with the individual. This marks the first reported case of rabies infection in a Kentucky resident since 1996.
Source: https://www.fox19.com/2024/12/28/rare-case-human-rabies-kills-nky-resident