A 60-year-old art teacher in Dos Palos, California, tragically lost her life to rabies after being bitten by a bat she was trying to rescue from her classroom. This incident marks the first human rabies case in Fresno County since 1992.

The teacher, identified as Leah Seneng, encountered the bat in October but didn't experience symptoms until about a month later. She was hospitalized and passed away four days after admission. Dr. Trinidad Solis, Fresno County Health Department's deputy health officer, emphasized the severity of rabies, stating that it's a rare but serious brain disease transmitted through saliva, not through the air. There is currently no cure for rabies, making prevention crucial.

Seneng worked at Bryant Middle School in Dos Palos. While health officials believe there is no immediate public health risk, they are collaborating with the Merced County Health Department to identify any other potential exposures and provide necessary vaccinations.

A GoFundMe account has been established by Seneng's colleagues to support her family during this difficult time. The tragic incident underscores the importance of rabies awareness and preventative measures.