A British woman has died from rabies after being scratched by a stray puppy during a holiday in Morocco, her family has confirmed. Yvonne Ford, from Barnsley in South Yorkshire, came into brief contact with the dog while visiting the North African country in February.
Two weeks ago, Ford began experiencing symptoms including a severe headache and rapidly lost her ability to walk, talk, sleep, and swallow, her daughter revealed in a Facebook post. She was later diagnosed with rabies at Barnsley Hospital upon returning to the UK and tragically passed away.
No Public Health Risk
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) stated there is no risk to the wider public, as human-to-human transmission of rabies has never been documented. Close contacts of Mrs Ford, including healthcare workers, have been assessed and offered vaccinations where necessary as a precaution.
In her social media tribute, Ford’s daughter Robyn Thomson said: “We are still processing this unimaginable loss. She was scratched very slightly by a puppy and didn’t think any harm would come of it.”
Rabies is a rare but deadly viral infection that affects the brain and nervous system. It is most commonly transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. While the virus is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear, post-exposure treatment is highly effective if given promptly.
Health Officials Urge Caution
Dr Katherine Russell, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “Human cases of rabies are extremely rare in the UK. However, if you are bitten, scratched or licked by an animal in a country where rabies is found, wash the site thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical help immediately.”
According to UKHSA data, there have been six recorded rabies deaths in the UK related to animal exposure abroad between 2000 and 2024. The agency warns that rabies remains prevalent in parts of Africa and Asia, and travellers should avoid direct contact with animals and consider rabies vaccination before visiting affected regions.
Ford’s family is urging the public to take all animal bites seriously. Her daughter added: “Please vaccinate your pets, educate others, and don’t underestimate even minor scratches.”
