Rare Rabies Transmission in Organ Transplant Proves Fatal

A kidney transplant recipient has died after receiving an organ from a donor with undiagnosed rabies, according to U.S. health officials. This tragic case is exceptionally rare. Since 1978, federal records show only four donors have transmitted the rabies virus through organ transplantation in the United States. Rabies is a severe viral infection that attacks the brain and nervous system. It is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear. The donor in this case showed no signs of rabies before the organ recovery. Standard screening procedures for potential donors do not routinely test for rabies. Health officials are now investigating the source of the donor's infection. The three other recipients who received organs from the same donor are now receiving anti-rabies treatment as a preventive measure. Officials confirm no further risk exists to the public or to hospital staff.