In September 2025, a fatal case of rabies was confirmed in a 25-year-old man from Algeria in Perpignan, Occitanie. Investigations are currently underway to determine the source of infection. According to media reports, the patient had travelled to the Maghreb.
The case highlights vulnerabilities associated with international travel and underscores the importance of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for rabies.
Prevention: Avoid contact with animals and do not feed them! Travellers are advised to get a pre-exposure vaccination, especially those at higher risk, such as individuals working with animals, riding two-wheelers, visiting remote areas, young children, cave explorers, or anyone who may come into contact with bats.
Behavior after exposure: After an animal bite/scratch: immediately wash the wound with water and soap for 15 minutes, then disinfect and in any case visit a high-quality medical center for post-exposure vaccination as soon as possible!