Rabies outbreak in Hua Hin district in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand

Health authorities in the Hua Hin district in Prachuap Khiri Khan have declared an outbreak of rabies after a dog bit 15 residents and foreigners and also other dogs and cats in the area. The dog died during quarantine due to rabies. At least one other dog is suspected to have rabies.

Advice

Rabies is almost universally fatal if preventive measures are not taken immediately after exposure due to the bite of a possibly rabid animal. Rabies can be effectively prevented while travelling by avoiding direct contact with animals, especially by not touching or feeding any animals, including dogs and cats, and by closely supervising children around all animals.

There is an effective rabies vaccine. Those who should consider a rabies vaccination include: veterinarians, long-term travellers and persons living in areas with a high risk of exposure; wildlife professionals, researchers, or adventure travellers who may be involved in activities that bring them into direct contact with bats, dogs, and other mammals.

If bitten while travelling, seek medical attention at once. After exposure, there are specific measures (e.g., use of rabies antibodies and vaccine) that must be followed to reduce the likelihood of clinical illness and death.