Rabies (human) in Indonesia (Bali) (update)
25 August 2010
The rabies situation in Bali does not appear to be improving.
Two children from Buleleng district died from rabies last week, bringing the total number of deaths to 78 since the outbreak began in Sep 2008.
The number of dog attacks has risen steeply in the last several months; 36 000 dog-bite incidents in Bali so far this year, this compares with 24 000 for the whole of 2009.
Post-exposure treatment including rabies vaccine remains unavailable in some parts of the island eg Denpasar, Badung, Klungkung, Karangasem and Bungli.
Advice for travellers
Bali was considered rabies free until the end of 2008, when animal and human cases were first reported.
Travellers to Bali should be aware of the rabies risk, the lack of rabies immunoglobulin (used for treatment following a bite) and a shortage of rabies vaccine. Rabies pre-exposure vaccination may be considered. Animal contact should be avoided and medical attention sought following any animal or bat bite.
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