Human rabies--Michigan, 2009

Abstract

On November 9, 2009, a Michigan hospital informed CDC of suspected rabies in a man aged 55 years. The patient reportedly had awakened with a bat on his arm 9 months earlier but had not sought medical evaluation. He went to a local emergency department (ED) on October 30 and soon after was hospitalized; he died 12 days later. On November 14, CDC confirmed infection with a rabies virus variant that commonly infects the silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans). This report summarizes the patient's clinical course and the associated public health investigation. The report highlights the importance of public awareness of rabies, particularly among persons who might be at risk for wildlife exposures. Persons who experience contact with a bat and cannot confidently rule out a bite or scratch should seek prompt medical attention.