Family of Barnsley rabies victim say death was "traumatic"
BBC World
March 4, 2026
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The family of Yvonne Ford, a 59-year-old woman from Barnsley who died from rabies after being scratched by a stray puppy in Morocco, has shared their deeply emotional experience during an inquest. Ford’s condition deteriorated rapidly following the incident, with her family describing her death as “traumatic” and expressing their determination to ensure no other family undergoes similar loss. They emphasized the importance of raising public awareness about the dangers of animal scratches or bites abroad, urging individuals to seek immediate medical attention if such an incident occurs.
Yvonne Ford was scratched by a stray dog during a holiday in Morocco in February 2023. Initially, the injury seemed minor with no bleeding, but she began experiencing severe symptoms such as headaches, nausea, disorientation, and hallucinations four months later. Despite these concerning signs, her condition went undiagnosed until a psychiatrist noted her travel history and suspected rabies. By that point, Ford was transferred to an infectious disease unit, where she passed away due to the incurable nature of the disease once symptoms present themselves.
Ford’s family painted a vivid picture of her as a loving mother, wife, and grandmother who was deeply cherished by her four grandchildren. Her daughter, Robyn Thomson, recounted how the family watched her mother deteriorate rapidly without explanation, leading to significant emotional distress. They highlighted concerns about the care she received at Barnsley Hospital, feeling that Yvonne was not treated with the dignity she deserved during her final days.
The inquest revealed that Ford’s symptoms, including hydrophobia (a fear of water), were consistent with rabies. Experts explained that once symptoms appear, the disease is always fatal, and there was no treatment available to save her. Thomson stressed the importance of educating the public about the risks of animal scratches or bites, especially when traveling abroad. She urged anyone bitten or scratched by an animal to seek urgent medical advice to prevent such tragedies in the future.
This case underscores the critical need for global awareness and prompt medical intervention in cases involving potential rabies exposure. The family’s mission is not only to honor Yvonne’s memory but also to protect others from
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Originally published on BBC World on 3/4/2026