Kentucky rabies death first since 1996

A northern Kentucky resident has died from rabies, the first confirmed infection since 1996, Kentucky health officials report.

According to the Kentucky Department for Public Health. the source of the individual's exposure has not been identified but may have originated outside of the U.S. during travel.

The individual received medical treatment in Kentucky and Ohio.

According to the CDC, fewer than ten human deaths caused by the disease are reported in the US.

The most common carrier of rabies in Kentucky is bats and skunks, although any mammal can be infected.

Rabies is a rare but serious disease typically spread through bites or scratches from an infected animal, or the entry of infected saliva or other fluids into a person's eyes, nose, mouth or open wounds. Uf left untreated rabies is usually fatal.