Bat Rabies Death in Ontario: Child Dies After Exposure to Infected Bat

In a tragic case of bat rabies death in Ontario, a child has died after contracting rabies from a bat. This is the province’s first human rabies death since 1967. The child was exposed to the virus after encountering a bat in northern Ontario. Despite the lack of visible signs of a bite, the family did not seek immediate vaccination, which led to the fatal outcome.

Health officials are now stressing the importance of prompt medical attention following any contact with potentially infected animals to prevent further incidents of bat rabies death in Ontario.

According to Dr. Malcolm Lock, medical officer for the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit, the child passed away in a Hamilton hospital approximately two weeks ago. The exposure to the bat occurred in the Gowganda area, north of Sudbury, in early September. The incident underscores the importance of seeking medical attention after any potential contact with rabid animals, even if no visible signs of a bite are present.

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a viral infection that attacks the brain and spinal cord, often leading to death once symptoms appear. While human rabies is extremely rare in Canada, with only 26 cases recorded since 1924, it is still a serious threat. The virus is mainly spread through bites or scratches from infected animals like bats, skunks, raccoons, and foxes.

Health officials urge the public to stay alert. “Even if there are no clear bite marks or saliva, it’s crucial to seek medical help right away,” Dr. Lock emphasized. Rabies can be prevented with prompt treatment, including wound care and a series of vaccines. These are nearly 100% effective when given soon after exposure.

In this case, the family saw no signs of infection and chose not to get the rabies vaccine, a decision that proved fatal. While health officials have not released further details to protect the family’s privacy, they stressed the need for public awareness about rabies risks.

Rabies in Bats and Ongoing Concerns

Bats are a primary carrier of rabies in Canada, and their bites can go unnoticed because of their small teeth. In this case, the child was bitten while asleep, so the family didn’t realize they needed medical attention. Public health officials recommend seeking medical advice immediately if you come into contact with a bat, especially indoors.

Recently, Ontario has seen a rise in rabies cases in bats. Health authorities report a 16% positivity rate in some regions, up from previous years. This rise is a clear reminder that rabies, though rare, still poses a risk to humans when left untreated.

This case highlights the danger of rabies and the need for early treatment. Even without visible bites, the risk is too great to ignore. Public health officials urge everyone to be cautious around wildlife and seek medical advice if exposed.

Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time.

References:

• https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/following-child-s-death-in-ontario-here-s-what-you-need-to-know-about-rabies-and-bats-1.7063007
• https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/child-dies-rabies-after-bat-33826312
• https://www.sudbury.com/beyond-local/ontario-child-dies-after-being-hospitalized-with-rabies-9611777