Rabies is uncommon in travellers, but once symptoms start it is almost always fatal. The good news is that treatment after a bite or scratch can prevent rabies if it is started quickly.
If you are bitten or scratched by a dog, monkey, cat, bat or other mammal in a rabies-risk country:
Wash the wound straight away with lots of soap and running water.
Then get medical help as soon as possible. Do not wait until you return to the UK.
If you have not had rabies vaccine before travel
Depending on the type of exposure, you may need a course of rabies vaccine.
For higher-risk bites or scratches, you may also need rabies immunoglobulin, called HRIG.
HRIG contains ready-made antibodies. It is put into and around the wound to give immediate protection while the vaccine starts working.
Can I just get the treatment abroad?
Often, yes. But do not assume it will always be easy.
Rabies vaccine may be available, but rabies immunoglobulin is in short supply worldwide and can be difficult to get in some places. You may need to travel to a larger hospital or city for treatment.
If you are treated abroad, use a reputable medical service and keep a record of the vaccine name, dates given and whether immunoglobulin was used.
Which countries are a concern?
Rabies is found in many parts of the world, especially Asia, Africa and parts of Central and South America.
Popular destinations classed by UKHSA as high risk for rabies in land animals include:
India, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Indonesia, Bali, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Nepal, China, Morocco, Türkiye, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Brazil and Peru.
There are many other high-risk countries too, so always check your exact destination before travelling.
Being classed as a high-risk country does not mean every traveller needs a rabies vaccine.
Your risk also depends on how long you are travelling, whether you are backpacking or visiting remote areas, the animals you may come into contact with, and how quickly you could reach reliable treatment after a bite or scratch.
Rabies vaccination may be especially worth discussing if you are backpacking, travelling for several weeks, visiting rural areas, spending time around dogs or monkeys, or travelling somewhere where treatment could be difficult to access.
Trustwell Clinic in Marple offers private rabies vaccination and travel health advice for travellers from Stockport and surrounding areas.