A Case Study on Unreported First Probable Human Rabies Following Honey Badger in Somalia

Abstract

Rabies is a neglected zoonotic disease caused by a virus. It is an acute progressive neurological disease that affects people in many parts of the world, especially in low income countries including Somalia and it is always lethal once symptoms appear without immediate post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Nearly half of rabies cases occur in children. This case report presents a tragic and unique clinical scenario involving a 14-year-old boy from a rural area in Somalia who presented to our tertiary hospital after a bite from a honey badger. The patient’s younger sister, who was also bitten by the same honey badger, sadly succumbed to the disease two weeks prior. This report aims to contribute to the medical literature by highlighting the challenges faced in diagnosing and managing rabies in resource-constrained settings.

Keywords:

• rabies
• honey badger
• post-exposure prophylaxis
• zoonotic disease
• Somalia

Data Sharing Statement

We declared that we had full access to all of the data in this case report, and we take complete responsibility for the integrity of the data. All original data are available in the Mogadishu Somali Turkish Training and Research Hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia. Data used to support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon request.

Ethics Approval

Based on the regulations of the review board of the Mogadishu Somali Turkish Training and Research Hospital, institutional review board approval is not required for case reports.

Consent for Publication

Written informed consent had obtained by the patient’s father to have the case details and any accompanying images published.

Author Contributions

All authors made a significant contribution to the work reported, whether that is in the conception, case presentation, or in all these areas; took part in drafting, revising or critically reviewing the case; gave final approval of the version to be published; have agreed on the journal to which the article has been submitted; and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.

Disclosure

The authors declare no conflicts of interest in this work.

Additional information

Funding

We declare that we have not received any financial support.