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expert reaction to UKHSA announcement of a rabies case in individual from UK following contact with animal in Morocco

Scientists comment on UKHSA announcing a rabies case in an individual that had contact with an animal in Morocco. 

 

Dr Chris Smith, Clinical Associate Professor, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), said:

“Rabies is a fatal but preventable disease. Although cases in UK travellers are very rare, this recent tragic case underscores the importance of awareness and timely treatment.

“Rabies is endemic in many parts of the world, including popular holiday destinations such as Morocco, Turkey, India, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia. All human rabies cases reported in the UK since 1902 have been acquired abroad: typically through dog bites. Since 1946, 26 imported cases have been reported, with the most recent prior to this being in 2018, following a bite from a cat in Morocco.

“Travellers to countries where rabies is present should seek pre-travel advice regarding vaccination.

“Rabies is usually transmitted to humans through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, most often dogs, but also cats and bats. Even a minor scratch or lick on broken skin can pose a risk. If exposed, immediate first aid is essential: the wound should be thoroughly washed with soap and water, and prompt post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) – including a course of rabies vaccinations and, in some cases, rabies immunoglobulin – should be sought. These interventions are highly effective when started early.”

“The key public health messages are:

  • Rabies is a deadly but preventable disease
  • Seek pre-travel advice regarding vaccination when visiting high-risk countries
  • Avoid contact with animals abroad; if bitten or scratched, seek medical care immediately — don’t wait for symptoms to appear”

 

Further information

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/rabies-epidemiology-transmission-and-prevention

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/rabies-risks-by-country/rabies-risks-in-terrestrial-animals-by-country

 

 

 

Declared interests

Dr Chris Smith: No conflicts to declare.

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