A California art teacher, Leah Seneng, tragically died of rabies after being bitten by a bat in her classroom in Bryant High School in Dos Palosnear Fresno. The 60-year-old woman was trying to free the trapped animal when it bit her.
Seneng initially showed no symptoms of rabies, which can include fever, headache and nausea. However, a month after the incident, his condition rapidly deteriorated. She was placed in a medically induced coma and died on November 22, just four days after being hospitalized.
talking to ABC30 NewsLaura Splotch, Seneng’s lifelong friend, told how Seneng had compassionately tried to save the bat by picking it up and releasing it outside. “She didn’t want to hurt him,” Splotch said, explaining that the bat, which appeared to be asleep, bit Seneng when he suddenly woke up.
Rabies, a virus transmitted through the saliva of infected animals such as bats, raccoons and foxes, is almost 100% fatal without immediate vaccination. Tragically, Seneng did not seek medical attention after the bite, not realizing the seriousness of the situation.
Fresno County Department of Public Healthalong with the California Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), confirmed that rabies is the cause of Seneng’s disease after testing at the Viral and Rickettsial Diseases Laboratory (VRDL). ) of the state.
Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, director of the California Department of Public Health, emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention after any animal bite, particularly from wild animals such as bats. “Bat bites can be incredibly small and difficult to see or detect.” Aragon said.
“It is important to wash your hands and look for open wounds after handling a wild animal, and if you are bitten, seek immediate medical attention.” Aragón also reminded citizens to avoid approaching or handling wild animals, highlighting that the safest thing to do is to leave them alone.
The tragedy has left the Bryant High School community mourning the loss of a beloved teacher known for her kindness and dedication. A GoFundMe page has been created to support Seneng’s family during this difficult time.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of rabies and the critical importance of immediate medical care after an animal bite.