A seven-year-old boy in Canada has died from rabies after a bat was discovered on his face while he slept. The incident occurred in early May in British Columbia, and the boy passed away on June 28, according to health officials.
No visible bite marks
The boy's mother found a bat on his face in his bedroom. Despite the close contact, there were no visible bite marks, scratches, or signs of a wound. The family did not seek immediate medical attention, as they were unaware of the potential rabies risk.
Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. Transmission typically occurs through the saliva of an infected animal, often via a bite.
Symptoms and diagnosis
The boy began showing symptoms about two weeks after the exposure. He experienced fever, headache, and neck pain, which rapidly progressed to seizures, agitation, and difficulty swallowing. He was hospitalized and later diagnosed with rabies. Despite intensive care, his condition deteriorated, and he died.
Dr. Bonnie Henry, British Columbia's provincial health officer, stated: "This is a tragic and entirely preventable death. Rabies is a devastating disease, but it can be prevented with prompt post-exposure prophylaxis."
Public health response
Health authorities are investigating the case and have urged anyone who may have had contact with the boy or the bat to seek medical advice. The bat was tested and confirmed positive for rabies.
Rabies cases in humans are rare in Canada, with only a handful reported in the past several decades. The last human rabies death in British Columbia was in 2003.
Prevention and awareness
Officials emphasize the importance of seeking immediate medical care after any potential exposure to bats or other wild animals. Post-exposure vaccination is highly effective if given before symptoms appear.
"If you wake up to find a bat in your room, or if you have direct contact with a bat, wash the area thoroughly and seek medical attention right away," said Dr. Henry.
The boy's family has requested privacy as they mourn their loss.
