Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, Reports First Rabies Fatality of the Year; Patient Died After Foregoing Vaccination Following Dog Bite

On February 20, 2026, Dr. Wichan Khithen, the Provincial Public Health Director of Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, provided an update on the rabies situation in the country. From January 1 to January 20, 2026, two fatalities have been confirmed nationwide: one in Rayong Province and one in Nakhon Ratchasima.

The first fatality in Nakhon Ratchasima was a 53-year-old male from Pho Klang Subdistrict, Mueang District. According to medical history, he was bitten on both legs by a dog on December 6, 2025. Although the wounds were minor, he did not seek medical attention or receive the rabies vaccine at the time.

On February 11, the patient began showing symptoms, including fever, phlegm, and an inability to urinate. By February 13, he was admitted to Suranaree Camp Hospital. As his condition failed to improve and new symptoms emerged—specifically extreme muscle weakness and the inability to swallow food or water—he was transferred to Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital. His condition continued to deteriorate, and he passed away on February 15.

Post-mortem laboratory results confirmed the presence of rabies virus genetic material in brain tissue samples. Disease investigation is currently ongoing, and health officials have intensified surveillance and controls in high-risk areas under the supervision of the Medical and Public Health Emergency Operations Center (EOC).