Rabies cases reported in Turkey

Rabies cases have been confirmed in different regions of Turkey, affecting both humans and livestock.

In Diyarbakır, a 3-year-old child in the Sur district tested positive for rabies after reportedly coming into contact with a cat several months prior. The child fell ill on August 10 and is currently intubated and undergoing treatment. Prof. Dr. Hasan İçen, Chief Physician of the Animal Hospital at Dicle University, noted that transmission can occur through both bites and scratches. He explained that incubation periods vary by wound location, stating that bites near the head may show symptoms within two to four months, while bites on the feet can range from one to three years. Dr. İçen emphasized that once clinical symptoms appear, the disease is irreversible.

Following the child’s hospitalization, health authorities launched contact tracing and provided prophylaxis to those exposed. Local municipalities and agricultural directorates also began field studies regarding stray animals in the area.

In Ardahan, a quarantine was implemented in the Gürçayır neighborhood after a large animal at a local business tested positive for the disease. The affected animal was culled, and the Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry initiated measures to assess the spread and protect public and animal health.

Following recent outbreaks in Diyarbakır, Ardahan, and Iğdır, health experts and the Turkish Veterinary Medical Association (TVHB) have issued urgent warnings. Ali Eroğlu, President of the TVHB, stated that recent outbreaks are largely linked to wildlife, including wolves, jackals, foxes, and weasels. He noted that the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry’s oral vaccination programs for wildlife have reduced infection foci by approximately 84% nationwide. Medical professionals emphasize that while the virus is nearly 100% preventable through vaccination, it becomes fatal once clinical symptoms appear.