Rabies warning for travellers to Bali

Hunter New England Health is urging anyone planning a trip to Bali to take precautions to avoid catching rabies, following ongoing notifications of the life-threatening disease in Bali.
This disease is passed onto people following bites or scratches from infected animals.
Public Health Physician Dr David Durrheim said it is important travellers avoid contact with domestic and wild animals, particularly dogs, cats and monkeys on the Indonesian island.

“Travellers should avoid contact with animals in Bali, and if this is not possible then they should arrange pre-exposure rabies vaccination before travel, particularly if they plan an extended holiday in the region,” Dr Durrheim said.

“See your GP to talk about vaccination options before you leave for your holiday.

“If bitten or scratched by any animal while in Bali, travellers should immediately wash the wound well with soap and water and apply an antiseptic such as iodine to the wound.

“They should then see a doctor as soon as possible to care for the wound and to assess whether there is a risk of rabies infection and need for rabies vaccination, which should be administered as soon as possible.”

Dr Durrheim said it was important that anyone who is scratched or bitten by animals in Bali seek medical attention – regardless of the severity of the wound.

“Even if the wound heals and the person feels no obvious symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice,” Dr Durrheim said.

For more information go to www.health.nsw.gov.au/factsheets/infectious/rabiesbatinfection.html

Contact: Communication Unit

Phone: 4985 5522