A 59-year-old British tourist, Yvonne Ford from South Yorkshire, passed away from rabies after being scratched by a stray puppy in Morocco—an incident she initially deemed harmless.
What Happened
In February 2025, Yvonne was scratched very slightly by a stray puppy while on holiday in Morocco
Two weeks before her death on June 11, 2025, she began showing symptoms ranging from headache to paralysis and difficulty swallowing
This is the seventh confirmed rabies case in the UK since 2000 — all contracted overseas
Rabies: Symptoms & Fatality
Rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear. Initial flu‑like signs can swiftly escalate to paralysis, brain inflammation, and death
Post‑Exposure Treatment (PEP)
Immediate first aid: wash wounds with soap and water for at least 15 minutes, apply disinfectant, dress the wound.
Seek post‑exposure prophylaxis (PEP): vaccination plus immunoglobulin, ideally within hours—highly effective if started before symptoms arise
Official Gear-Up Warnings
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed there's no public health risk in the UK — but close contacts and health workers are being monitored and vaccinated as a precaution
Travel Safety Tips
Get rabies vaccination before traveling to endemic regions (Asia, Africa, Latin America).
Avoid contact with stray animals—especially if sick or behaving strangely.
Treat all animal scratches or bites seriously, no matter how minor.
Carry a travel health kit and know local medical facilities.
Act quickly—wash wounds, disinfect, and seek medical attention ASAP after exposure.
❓ FAQs
Q: Could such a small scratch actually transmit rabies?
A: Yes—rabies can be transmitted through tiny scratches or licks from an infected animal’s saliva. Even "slight" exposure can be fatal if not treated promptly
Q: Why did symptoms appear so late?
A: Rabies has a variable incubation period—anywhere from a few days to months—depending on bite location and viral load .
Q: Is rabies treatable once symptoms begin?
A: Sadly, once symptoms start, rabies is almost always fatal. Treatment must begin before symptoms appear to be effective .
Q: Should travellers to Morocco be vaccinated?
A: Yes—if you plan to visit rural areas, interact with animals, or stay long-term. Vaccination makes post-exposure treatment simpler and more effective .
Q: Is rabies contagious between humans?
A: No documented human-to-human rabies cases exist. Transmission via saliva is possible, but highly unlikely outside organ transplants .
Published on 21st june
Publisher : SMITA
www.vizzve.com || www.vizzveservices.com
Follow us on social media: Facebook || Linkedin || Instagram
🛡 Powered by Vizzve Financial
RBI-Registered Loan Partner | 10 Lakh+ Customers | ₹600 Cr+ Disbursed