After reporting seven human rabies cases from Jan to early August in 2022, the Sarawak health director announced this year’s total had risen to 15 – representing an 87.5 percent increase – with 13 deaths. Dog and cat bites and scratches were the sources of exposure in most cases that were reported from Sibu, Serian, Kuching, Bintulu and Samrahan. 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 and also for children. 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.