Rabies is usually passed on by dogs, foxes, and bats and can be spread via a scratch, bite, or contact with saliva. It is a disease that remains extremely rare in the UK, with only 26 cases reported since 1946.
Recent Development
In a tragic incident, Yvonne Ford, a 59-year-old British grandmother, died of rabies on June 11, 2026, after being scratched by a stray puppy during a trip to Morocco in February 2025. Rabies was diagnosed only days before her death, highlighting the challenges in recognizing the disease.
Symptoms of rabies typically begin within four weeks of exposure, but can take up to three months or longer. Unfortunately, Ford did not seek medical treatment immediately after the scratch, which contributed to the delay in diagnosis.
Robyn Thomson, a family member, stated, “Rabies is always fatal once symptoms appear,” emphasizing the critical nature of timely medical intervention. Adam Ford, Yvonne’s son, expressed the family’s anguish, saying, “No family should have to witness the rapid deterioration of someone they love as we did, with unknown answers for our mum’s symptoms and growing fear of her deterioration.”
Investigation Findings
The inquest into Ford’s death concluded that the rarity of rabies and its unusual presentation led to difficulties in diagnosis. However, this did not affect the fatal outcome, as the disease is 100% fatal once symptoms begin to show.
Looking Ahead
Health officials continue to stress the importance of seeking immediate medical treatment after potential exposure to rabies. Globally, rabies is responsible for approximately 59,000 deaths every year, underscoring the need for awareness and prevention strategies.