Rabies in Kentucky: A Reminder of Rabies Risks and Prevention

Recent Case in Kentucky

The Kentucky Department for Public Health has issued a health alert regarding a human rabies case in Kentucky.

A northern Kentucky resident has died from a confirmed rabies infection. Preliminary laboratory testing results indicate that the individual was exposed outside of the United States. The individual received medical treatment in Kentucky and Ohio and was hospitalized for several weeks before their death.

The Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH) is working with the Northern Kentucky Health Department, Ohio Department of Health, City of Cincinnati Health Department, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to identify people with known contact to the individual and assess for possible exposure to rabies.¹

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a fatal but preventable viral disease. It can be spread to people and pets through the bites and scratches of an infected animal. Rabies primarily affects the central nervous system, leading to severe brain disease and death if medical care is not received before symptoms start.²

How is Rabies Spread?

Rabies is spread when an infected animal, usually wild, bites or scratches other animals or people. The virus is usually carried in saliva or mucus and spreads through broken skin.³

Protecting Yourself from Rabies

The best way you can prevent rabies is by²: 

• Making sure your pets are up-to-date on their rabies vaccines 
• Keeping wildlife wild stay away from wildlife for both human and animal safety 
• Calling animal control to remove stray animals from your neighborhood 
• Washing animal bites or scratches immediately with soap and water and seeking medical care shortly after potential exposures 

What to Do if You are Exposed to Rabies

If you've been in contact with any wildlife or unfamiliar animals, particularly if you've been bitten or scratched, do the following⁴:

• Wash any wounds immediately with soap and water for 15 minutes to flush out any virus
• Talk with a healthcare or public health professional about your risk and if you need rabies-related care
• Tell your healthcare provider the type of animal you encountered
• Make note of and tell your healthcare provider if you see any signs that the animal is not acting normally
• If the animal that bit you is a pet, ask the owner if the animal is up-to-date on their rabies vaccination

Conclusion

Rabies is a serious public health threat, but it is nearly 100% preventable with timely and appropriate medical treatment.²

Immediate medical attention following suspected rabies exposure is critical.