The WHO has declared Mexico to have eliminated human rabies transmitted by dogs after it completed a validation process initiated by the WHO/PAHO in 2016. Rabies-free status involves zero transmission for two years and, while there have been no cases since 2006, according to the PAHO, ‘In order to sustain elimination, PAHO/WHO recommends continuing all rabies prevention, surveillance and control actions, particularly as rabies virus continues to circulate among wild animals such as bats’. Read more
THE STATES of Jalisco, Morelos and Sinaloa have recorded more than 80 of the 98 Zika virus infections detected this year. In other Zika news, ProMED has summarised worldwide reports since August and included related journal articles here.
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 normally 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.