The NICD has published details on a probable fifth rabies infection this year, the latest being a young girl from Eastern Cape Province. According to the report, the girl’s post-exposure prophylaxis consisted of four doses of rabies vaccine, but no immunoglobulin. She succumbed to the infection in May. The five cases this year were located in two provinces - Eastern Cape and Limpopo. 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 – especially dogs, the main source of infection. If bitten, urgent post-exposure treatment is required. Vaccination recommendations are itinerary-specific but include those travellers planning to live in, or travel extensively or repeatedly through, endemic countries. 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.