Woman Survives Rabies After Being Bitten by Cat Abroad

Strategic Insights -

Chloe Kelly, 44, contracted rabies after being bitten by a cat while on holiday in Turkey. Her two dogs, Zeus and Bronson, raised the alarm, prompting her to call 111, which then led to her receiving emergency treatment and a vaccine flown in from Northampton. Chloe credits her dogs with saving her life, saying they "100 per cent saved my life" as she narrowly escaped fatal brain damage due to the delay in treatment.

Key Takeaways:

  • Chloe Kelly, 44, contracted rabies after being bitten by a cat while on holiday in Turkey.
  • Her two dogs, Zeus and Bronson, raised the alarm, prompting her to call 111, which then led to her receiving emergency treatment.
  • Chloe credits her dogs with saving her life, saying they "100 per cent saved my life".
  • She narrowly escaped fatal brain damage due to the delay in treatment, which can spread to the brain and prove fatal within 24 hours.
  • Chloe was bitten on her foot, the furthest area from her brain, which is believed to have contributed to her survival.
  • Her case is the first reported rabies case in the UK in recent history, with only a few recorded cases worldwide where people have survived past the 24-hour mark.

Statistics:

  • 9 cases worldwide where people have survived past the 24-hour mark.
  • 3-10 weeks duration of rabies symptoms in humans.
  • 24 hours window for treatment to prevent fatal brain damage.
  • 26 hours delay in treatment after the bite, which increased the risk of complications.

Sources:

  • Chloe Kelly's personal account.