Amid a rise in rabies infections among local dogs and cats, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in Eastern Cape Province last month reported the death of a young boy following a bite from a rabid dog. Responding to concerns the outbreak could spread to other areas, a rabies vaccination campaign has been targeting the municipality’s domestic pets. Read more. And in Lebanon, rabies is now said to be a risk on the streets of Beirut after unvaccinated dogs abandoned by their owners due to the economic downturn were left to roam free.
Advice for travellers
Rabies is present in most countries and all travellers should be aware of the importance of avoiding contact with wild and domestic animals, including bats. If bitten or scratched, urgent post-exposure treatment is required. Vaccination is generally recommended for longer stays, especially travellers planning to live in, or travel extensively through, rural areas and also for children; however the final recommendation is itinerary-specific. Read more on rabies.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.