### Art Teacher in Central Valley Dies of Rabies from Classroom Bat Bite

Health officials in California are cautioning residents about the risks of handling wild animals following the tragic death of Leah Seneng, a 60-year-old art teacher at Bryant Middle School in southern Merced County.

Seneng was bitten by a bat in her classroom in mid-October, leading to her eventual demise a month later. Despite initially showing no symptoms, she fell ill and was hospitalized, where she was placed in a medically induced coma before passing away on November 22. The California Department of Public Health confirmed that samples collected from the hospital provided evidence of rabies.

Close friend Laura Splotch recounted the incident, explaining that Seneng had attempted to remove the bat, believing it might be dead. The animal unexpectedly became active and bit her during the process. Splotch emphasized that Seneng's intentions were not to harm the bat, but rather to safely relocate it outdoors.

Dr. Tomás Aragón, the Director of the California Department of Public Health, highlighted the dangers associated with bat bites, which can be so small they are easily overlooked. He stressed the importance of seeking immediate medical attention after any contact with wild animals to prevent such fatal outcomes.

This incident serves as a stark reminder that while bats are the primary source of rabies in the U.S., maintaining a safe distance from all wild animals is crucial to minimizing risk.