Minnesota is a place that has been characterized as a place where contamination of rabies due to bats is more than rare. Several cases in recent history are under the eyes. The fact is, a bat’s bite cannot be detected because it has very sharp and smaller teeth. However, enough to transfer rabies. If the bat bites you, then you must go for a checkup. even if you get to spot a bat near a child or a person who is not able to speak or tell, then you should get that person to the health care or MDH (Minnesota Department of health) The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is currently investigating a case of human rabies involving an individual over 65 years old who had contact with a bat in western Minnesota in July 2024. This incident marks the fourth recorded case of human rabies in the state since 2000. The rabies diagnosis was confirmed on September 20 through testing conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta.
MDH is collaborating with the patient’s family and the healthcare facilities involved in their treatment to assess whether any family members or healthcare workers may have been exposed and require treatment. It is important to note that there is no public health risk associated with this case.
This situation underscores the potential rabies risk associated with bats in Minnesota and serves as a reminder for the public to avoid contact with them.
If anyone comes into contact with a bat or discovers one in the vicinity of a sleeping person, an unattended child, or an individual unable to communicate, it is crucial to safely capture the bat and submit it for rabies testing. Bat bites can be difficult to detect due to their tiny teeth, which may not leave a noticeable mark.
In instances where the bat cannot be tested, individuals should quickly contact their healthcare provider or MDH for guidance on the next steps.
Rabies, if left untreated, is usually fatal. However, rabies treatment is nearly 100% effective in preventing the disease after exposure, provided it is initiated before symptoms manifest. This is why health officials emphasize the importance of recognizing potential bat exposures and acting promptly. If a bat can be captured, tested, and confirmed free of the virus, rabies treatment is unnecessary.
Bats can be submitted for testing to the Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory or a veterinarian. The MDH website features a Rabies page with information on submission procedures, including a video demonstrating how to safely capture a bat for testing. It is crucial never to handle a bat with bare hands.
Individuals exposed to the rabies virus receive a rabies immune globulin injection and four doses of the rabies vaccine over two weeks. It is vital to seek medical treatment immediately after potential exposures are recognized; however, as long as symptoms have not yet developed, it is never too late to begin rabies vaccinations. Patients can inquire about assistance programs that may help cover the cost of rabies treatment.
Dr. Stacy Holzbauer, State Public Health Veterinarian, is also urging pet owners and livestock caregivers to ensure their animals are vaccinated against rabies. Vaccinations are available for dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, cattle, and sheep.
World Rabies Day, observed on September 28, provides an opportunity to increase awareness about the disease and its prevention. Over the years, the number of rabies-related human fatalities in the U.S. has significantly declined, from more than 100 per year in the early 1900s to fewer than five annually in recent years. Approximately 70% of rabies infections acquired in the U.S. are linked to bat exposures. In Minnesota, prior cases were documented in 1917, 1964, 1975, 2000, 2007, and 2021, all resulting in fatalities. Notably, the cases in 2000 and 2007 involved individuals who were bitten by bats but did not seek medical care.