Kedah reports first human rabies death since 1998

A 31-year-old man from Kubang Pasu, Kedah, has died from rabies, marking the first human case reported in the state since 1998. The victim had been bitten by a stray dog in August but did not receive post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) following the incident.

According to the Kedah State Health Department, the man began showing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and numbness in late September. His condition progressed to include hydrophobia, aerophobia, and difficulty swallowing before he was admitted to the intensive care unit. Laboratory tests confirmed the infection on September 26.

Authorities have launched a comprehensive epidemiological investigation to identify the source and exposure route. In response, the Kedah State Health Department, the Kubang Pasu District Health Office, and the Kedah Veterinary Services Department are implementing control measures, including active case detection, enhanced surveillance of animal bites, and management of stray animals.

Data from the state indicates that 502 animal bite and scratch cases were reported in Kedah through August, with dogs accounting for 65.3% of these incidents.