BBC Information, Yorkshire
Getty PhotographsAn individual from Yorkshire has died from rabies after contact with a stray canine in Morocco.
The UK Well being Safety Company (UKHSA) mentioned the particular person grew to become contaminated whereas on vacation within the North African nation.
The company mentioned there was no threat to the broader public attributable to no documented proof of rabies passing between folks.
Shut contacts of the particular person and well being staff have been being assessed and supplied vaccinations when obligatory as a precaution, a UKHSA spokesperson added.
Rabies may cause a life-threatening an infection of the mind and nervous system in people.
It’s handed on via accidents akin to bites and scratches from an contaminated animal.
It’s practically all the time deadly, the UKHSA mentioned, however post-exposure remedy is “very efficient” at stopping illness if given promptly after publicity to the virus.
Dr Katherine Russell, from the UKHSA, mentioned: “Human circumstances of rabies are extraordinarily uncommon within the UK.
“In case you are bitten, scratched or licked by an animal in a rustic the place rabies is discovered then it’s best to wash the wound or web site of publicity with loads of cleaning soap and water and search medical recommendation directly.”
Six circumstances of human rabies linked to animal publicity overseas have been reported within the UK between 2000 and 2024.
Rabies is especially widespread in Asia and Africa, the UKHSA mentioned, with folks visiting affected nations suggested to keep away from contact with canines, cats and different animals wherever they’ll.
The company additionally suggested folks to hunt recommendation in regards to the want for a rabies vaccine earlier than journey.
