What is it?

Rabies is a viral disease that is spread by a bite or scratch from an infected animal, usually a dog. It affects the brain and spinal cord and once symptoms are present, it is nearly always fatal. Rabies is estimated to caused around 60,000 human deaths worldwide each year.

Risk areas

Rabies is endemic throughout most of the world.

Prevention

Contact with wild or domestic animals should be avoided by travellers. The following steps should also be taken following potential rabies exposure:

• Immediately wash wound with soap & running water for several minutes
• Apply a disinfectant to the wound such as iodine or 40-70% alcohol
• Apply a simple dressing to the wound
• Seek medical advice as soon as possible

Vaccine schedule

Rabies vaccine is recommended for pre-exposure protection to travellers whose activities put them at increased risk. This includes:

• Those visiting areas where access to post-exposure treatment is limited
• Those planning high risk activities such as running or cycling
• Long-stay travellers (more than one month)

Length of protection

• Infrequent risk – booster dose to be considered at 10 years post primary course
• Frequent risk – booster at 1 year and then booster every 3 to 5 years