Who Survived rabies?

Answered by James Kissner

Jeanna Giese-Frassetto is the remarkable individual who survived rabies without being vaccinated. Her story is truly remarkable and serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit.

In 2004, Jeanna found herself in a terrifying situation when she was bitten by a bat she had rescued from her church in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Unfortunately, she did not seek immediate medical attention, a decision that would have dire consequences for her health.

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and is typically transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. It is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, making Jeanna’s survival all the more remarkable.

As the days passed, Jeanna began to experience symptoms of rabies, including headaches, fatigue, and confusion. Eventually, her condition worsened, and she developed the classic symptoms of the disease, such as hydrophobia (fear of water) and hallucinations. It was at this point that she was finally admitted to the hospital.

Jeanna’s case posed a significant challenge for the medical team treating her. Rabies is a notoriously difficult disease to treat, and at the time, there was no known cure. However, the doctors decided to take an experimental approach and put Jeanna into a medically induced coma.

During this coma, Jeanna was given a series of drugs, including antiviral medications and an experimental therapy called the Milwaukee Protocol. This protocol involved inducing a coma to protect the brain while the body’s immune system fought off the virus.

Jeanna remained in a coma for several weeks, and her condition remained critical. However, slowly but surely, she began to show signs of improvement. Over time, her body was able to clear the rabies virus, and she eventually woke up from the coma.

Jeanna’s recovery was a long and arduous process. She had to relearn how to walk, talk, and perform basic everyday tasks. With the support of her family and medical team, she persevered and made incredible progress.

Today, Jeanna is not only a survivor but also a mother. She gave birth to twins, Carly Ann and Connor Primo, on March 26, 2016. Her journey from near-death to motherhood is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit.

Jeanna’s story has had a profound impact on the medical community. Her case has provided valuable insights into the treatment of rabies and has paved the way for further research and advancements in this field. Her survival has given hope to others facing this devastating disease and serves as a reminder of the power of determination and medical innovation.

Jeanna Giese-Frassetto is the first person to survive rabies without being vaccinated. Her remarkable journey from being bitten by a bat to becoming a mother is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the advancements in medical science. Her story serves as an inspiration to all and highlights the importance of seeking prompt medical attention in the face of potential rabies exposure.