Leah Seneng, a 60-year-old art teacher at Bryant Middle School in Dos Palos, California, tragically passed away from rabies on November 22, following an encounter with a bat in her classroom. Seneng reportedly discovered the bat early one morning before students arrived. Believing it posed no immediate danger, she scooped it up and released it outside. According to her friend, Laura Splotch, Seneng thought the bat might have scratched or bitten her but dismissed the incident without seeking medical attention.
Public health officials emphasize the critical importance of immediate treatment following any contact with potentially rabid animals. However, the reasons why Leah Seneng did not pursue medical care remain unclear. Approximately a month later, she began experiencing symptoms such as fever and trembling hands. By November 18, she was hospitalized and placed in a medically induced coma the following day. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Seneng passed away four days later at Saint Agnes Medical Center in Fresno, surrounded by loved ones.
A Life Remembered
Seneng’s death has deeply affected her family, friends, and the community she served. Known as an avid hiker, world traveler, and talented artist, Leah Seneng was celebrated for her adventurous spirit and creative talents. Her playlist, filled with Duran Duran and world music, reflected her wide-ranging interests and love of life. Her husband and daughter were by her side in her final moments, with her daughter playing some of her favorite music.
The Dos Palos-Oro Loma Joint Unified School District mourned the loss of a dedicated educator who touched the lives of countless students. In a statement, the district expressed shock at the circumstances surrounding her passing and emphasized ongoing efforts to educate the community about the dangers of interacting with wildlife.
Understanding Rabies and Prevention
Rabies is a rare but fatal viral disease transmitted through direct contact with an infected animal’s saliva or nervous tissue. The virus primarily affects the central nervous system, leading to brain disease and, ultimately, death if left untreated. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most rabies cases in the U.S. stem from bats. The California Department of Public Health confirmed that Seneng’s case was linked to rabies.
Unusual bat behavior, such as being active during the day or found on the ground, may indicate infection. Health officials urge the public to avoid touching wild animals and to seek immediate medical attention if they suspect contact with a rabid animal. Treatment, known as post-exposure prophylaxis, includes a dose of immune globulin and a series of vaccines, which can effectively prevent the disease if administered promptly.
Leah Seneng’s untimely death serves as a sobering reminder of the risks posed by rabies and the importance of vigilance when interacting with wildlife. While rabies fatalities are rare in the U.S., her story underscores the necessity of education, awareness, and swift action in preventing such tragedies.
