In December 1892, a four-year-old boy in High Blantyre died from rabies after being bitten by a dog six weeks earlier. Initially, his wounds seemed to heal, but he later exhibited severe rabies symptoms, leading to a painful decline despite medical attempts to help. The tragedy highlighted the dangers of rabies before vaccines.
In late January 1893, the Hamilton Advertiser reported a suspected rabies case in Blantyre. Two dogs were examined by veterinarians after one was destroyed and the other died showing symptoms. Post-mortem findings concluded they did not have rabies, but rather succumbed to a severe cold and throat inflammation, prompting caution among local residents.