Mexico reports human rabies case linked to unvaccinated domestic cat

A recent case of human rabies transmission via an unvaccinated domestic cat that hunted wildlife was recorded in southeastern Mexico. While human rabies from dog bites has not been recorded in Mexico since 2006, wild rabies remains a threat through non-domestic animals.

Veterinarians note that domestic cats can contract the virus by hunting infected wildlife, such as blood-feeding bats. The World Health Organization estimates that rabies causes approximately 59,000 human deaths annually, with children aged five to 14 accounting for 40% of those fatalities. Health authorities recommend immediate medical evaluation following bites or scratches from animals such as bats, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, or skunks.