Man dies in Kedah's first human rabies case since 1998

A 31-year-old man from Kubang Pasu in Kedah died after contracting rabies following a bite from a stray dog in August, marking the first human rabies case in the state since 1998, according to the Kedah Health Department. The man received medical attention after the incident but did not receive post-exposure prophylaxis for rabies.

Symptoms, including lethargy, weakness, and numbness in the right upper limb, worsened over time, leading to a confirmed rabies infection by September 26. The Kedah Health Department, in collaboration with local authorities, has initiated control and prevention measures, including active case detection, health education, and strengthened surveillance of animal bite cases.

This investigation aims to identify the source of infection and the route of exposure, employing a comprehensive epidemiological approach under the One Health strategy. The department advises the public to seek immediate medical evaluation if bitten, scratched, or exposed to the saliva of an animal with a risk of rabies transmission, even if the wound has healed, and to report any suspected rabies cases to the state Veterinary Services Department or local authorities.