A Norwegian woman, who had been travelling in SE Asia (Philippines) two months ago, has died of rabies in a hospital in her home county of Sogn og Fjordane. According to a news article, this was the first such death on the Norwegian mainland in more than 200 years. The young woman was bitten by a puppy she rescued and was caring for during her travels. Fellow travellers have been advised and are under medical care. 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, 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.