### Minnesota Resident Dies of Rabies After Bat Encounter

A rare case of rabies has resulted in the death of a Minnesota resident, as confirmed by the state's Department of Health on Friday. The individual, who was over the age of 65, succumbed to the disease after being exposed to a bat in western Minnesota in July.

This incident underscores the rarity of rabies fatalities in the United States, with fewer than 10 cases reported annually, as stated by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The diagnosis was confirmed by CDC officials at their laboratory in Atlanta on September 20.

Following this fatality, the Minnesota Department of Health has been diligently working to assess whether others might have been exposed to the virus. However, they assured the public that there is no ongoing risk. In their news release, health officials emphasized the importance of avoiding contact with bats, highlighting that bat bites can go unnoticed due to their tiny teeth.

Rabies, a virus that attacks the central nervous system, is almost always fatal if untreated. Nonetheless, state health officials affirmed that post-exposure treatment is highly effective if administered before symptoms appear. Dr. Stacy Holzbauer, the state public health veterinarian, also urged residents to ensure their pets and livestock are immunized against rabies.

Historical data from the health department indicates a significant decline in rabies-related deaths in the U.S., dropping from over 100 annually in the early 1900s to fewer than five in recent years. Approximately 70% of rabies infections in the country are linked to bat encounters.