Health officials announce human death from rabies in northern Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky health officials announced a human death from rabies in northern Kentucky on Friday.

Officials said one person, who has not been identified, was exposed to rabies and received medical treatment in Kentucky and Ohio before dying. The source of their exposure to rabies is unknown at this time, and officials say the exposure may have occurred outside the U.S. during international travel.

Rabies is usually spread by bites or scratches from an infected animal, or by infected saliva or mucus getting into the eyes, nose, mouth, or any open wounds. While any mammal can be infected with the rabies virus, the most common carriers in Kentucky are bats and skunks.

Health officials said human-to-human transmission of rabies is rare, but they are working to identify those who have been in contact with the person and evaluate them for possible exposure.

“Rabies is a rare but serious disease caused by a virus that infects the brain,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Public Health (KDPH), in a statement. “Unfortunately, if left untreated, rabies is usually fatal. .”

KDPH, the Northern Kentucky Department of Health, the Ohio Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are investigating the case.

If you think you have been bitten or scratched by a wild animal that appears to be sick, contact a medical provider immediately.