Book an Appointment

What is Rabies and How Can You Avoid It While Travelling?

Jean Jones
Written by · Published 17th July, 2025 · Updated 28th July, 2025 · 1 min read

Rabies is a viral infection that affects the brain and nervous system, and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. It spreads through the bite or scratch of an infected animal — commonly dogs, monkeys, or bats.

⚠️ Symptoms of Rabies:

  • Tingling or burning at the site of the bite

  • Fever, headache, and muscle aches

  • Confusion, hallucinations, and hydrophobia (fear of water)

  • Death if untreated

🦠 How It Spreads:

  • Through the saliva of infected animals

  • Typically via bites, licks on broken skin, or scratches

🌍 Where Is Rabies a Risk?

  • Asia – India, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia (including Bali)

  • Africa – Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Ghana

  • Central and South America – Brazil, Peru, Bolivia

  • Eastern Europe – Some rural parts of Turkey and Romania

🛡️ How to Protect Yourself:

  • Avoid contact with wild and stray animals

  • Get the pre-exposure rabies vaccine if you’re:
    – Travelling for extended periods
    – Visiting remote or rural areas
    – Working with animals (e.g. vets, conservationists)

🩺 Enigma Healthcare in Tarporley, Cheshire offers quick, reliable rabies vaccinations with expert, doctor-led travel health advice.

👉 Book your rabies vaccine today

Jean Jones

Share this article: LinkedIn Facebook X

Due a screening?

Book a cervical screening appointment with our clinical team — quick, private, and convenient.

Book an appointment

Get health news in your inbox

Monthly guidance from our clinical team.

Interested in finding out more from Enigma Healthcare?

Simply sign up to our newsletter by submitting your email.