Four cases of imported rabies have been notified in the European Union this year. Norway confirmed one rabies-related death following infection in the Philippines in May this year, while Latvia reported a case in December in an individual returning from India, while in the same month Spain reported a case following travel to Morocco. Italian authorities confirmed the death of a traveller who was bitten by a dog while staying in Tanzania. Read more
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. If bitten or scratched, urgent post-exposure treatment is required. Vaccination is normally recommended for longer stays, but also for children, travellers planning to live in, or travel extensively through, rural areas; 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.