At the beginning of this week Massachusetts health officials announced the first human case of rabies reported in the state since 1935. It was later determined that the victim was infected by a little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus). This follows last month’s announcement out of South Carolina that a woman died after contracting rabies, that state’s first human case of rabies in half a century.
This week’s One Health roundup has more information on the Massachusetts rabies case, as well as a summary on the current state of rabies (and rabies treatment) by a Massachusetts epidemiologist. Other stories include a look at the increase in zoonotic diseases, the effects of climate change on wildlife, and a sweet story about how a group of New York veterinarians, with the help of some cute and friendly dogs, made the holidays brighter for kids in a long-term care facility.
Thanks for reading, and have a happy and healthy weekend!
Massachusetts rabies case blamed on little brown myotis bat
Reuters
The State of Rabies: Treating a Disease That Often Leads to Death
The Atlantic
Animal-Related Diseases Concern Scientists
Voice of America
Wildlife species to compete with each other during climate changes, study says
The Republic
Thinning sea ice killing seal pups, study says
CBC News (Canada)
Stem Cell Shots Reverse Aging in Mice
ABC News
Despite pit bull ban, man to be reunited with service dog
MSNBC
Veterinarians Bring Pets to Visit Disabled Children
WGRZ-TV (N.Y.)