A Floridian has died of rabies, one of less than a handful of rabies cases typically reported each year in the U.S.

Floridian from Highlands County dies of rabies

Person was bitten by a bat, didn't seek treatment, FWC says

Only 1 or 2 human rabies cases reported each year in US



The person who died of rabies was a resident of Highlands County and was bitten by a bat, the Florida Department of Health said. The person didn't seek immediate treatment or undergo post-exposure treatment protocols, the agency said.

Health Department officials didn't say when the infection occurred or when the person died.



Rabies is highly fatal, but the post-exposure protocol is effective if administered soon after a suspected bite.

There are only one or two human rabies cases each year nationwide, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

If you are bitten by a bat or suspect you might have been, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has provided instructions on what to do.

