Restrictions have been placed on the entry of animals and animal products into Derik district in the SE province of Mardin after several people were bitten by a rabid dog. The ban is to last for six months, while surrounding districts have also been placed under quarantine. Animal vaccination has reduced the burden of rabies, but, as stated by ProMED, ‘Turkey is regarded to be the only country in Europe where urban dog-mediated rabies persists … foci of the disease persist, particularly in urban areas’. 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 or scratched, urgent first aid and 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.