• Cholera
• Diphtheria
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Japanese B Encephalitis
• Malaria
• Meningococcal meningitis
• Polio
• Rabies
• Tetanus
• Tuberculosis
• Typhoid
• Yellow Fever

Rabies

What is it?

Rabies is a viral infection transmitted from the saliva of an infected animal that affects the human nervous system when they are bitten. Try and limit your contact with animals overseas, particularly if they are acting in a bizarre fashion.

Risk areas:

Occurs in all continents except Australasia. Some countries are thought to be normally "rabies-free".

Transmission:

Through the saliva of an infected animal.

Symptoms:

The incubation period can be very long…ranging from three weeks to two months. Once the signs of rabies start to develop, there is no treatment and can be fatal. Symptoms can include itching and tingling near the bite, and can progress to include headaches, fever, confusion, aggression and fear of water.

Treatment:

If you are bitten, cleanse all bites with soap and water and don’t allow the wound to be stitched and see a doctor if you are concerned that the animal may be infected. They may then provide injections of antibodies. In most cases, this prevents the disease from developing.

Vaccinations:

Vaccinations against rabies are not normal practice however if you are travelling and spending a period of time in an area where rabies is prevalent or you may be handing animals then it is advised.