Rabies (Human) in United Kingdom

29 May 2012

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has been notified of a confirmed, human case of rabies virus infection. The individual, who resides in London, was bitten by a dog whilst travelling in South Asia. The HPA announced on 29 May 2012, that the patient has died from the infection.

Advice for Travellers

Travellers to rabies endemic countries must be aware of the potential risk and are advised to avoid all animal contact where possible; dogs are the biggest threat to travellers. Rabies should be discussed and pre-exposure prophylaxis considered for those at risk e.g. remote/rural travel, working with animals, visiting areas where the correct treatment following a bite may not be available.

Travellers should be aware of the first aid treatment of any bite and must seek medical assistance and assessment of the wound as soon as possible.

• Further information on animal bites for travellers.