Rabies death reported in Boise, Idaho.

Human deaths attributed to rabies are very rare in the United States, but exposure is common. In fact, over 6000 exposure cases are reported each year, with every one of these cases needing to receive post-exposure rabies treatment. 

After exposure to the rabies virus, death is almost certain unless post-exposure treatment is provided. And it is with great sadness to hear of the death of a local man in Boise due to the rabies virus.

According to local news reports, the local Bosie man was outside his home sometime in august when a bat flew into him and became tangled in his clothing. The man did not think he had been bit or scratched, so he did not seek medical attention. However, around two months later, he became ill and was taken to a Boise hospital, where he later died. At this time, Boise health officials are reported to be working with those close to the man and anyone who may have been exposed while he was in the hospital. Where needed, post-exposure rabies treatment will begin.

If you wake up to a bat in your home, RV, tent, or anywhere else, do not release the bat, capture it alive if possible and take it into your local animal control department for testing. If it tests positive for rabies, then you will need to start the post-exposure treatment. If it tests negative, you will not need to. If you cannot capture the bat, then the safest course of action is to start the post-exposure treatment asap.

A bat in a home strongly indicates that a colony may have taken up residence in your structure. Therefore, we recommend contacting a bat removal specialist to come out and inspect the property. 

Your Local Bat Removal Expert,

Michael Koski