Deaths Due to Rabies in Thailand

A patient died of rabies just last week in Surat Thani. This brings the number of deaths due to rabies to 16 for the year across the country. Rabies were contracted from both dogs (15 deaths) and cats (1 death). Other areas where death from rabies occurred are Buri Ram, Rayong, Surin, Songkhla, Trang, Nakhon Ratchasima, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Phatthalung, Nong Khai, Yasothon Kalasin, Mukdahan, and Tak.

Beratung

Rabies is almost universally fatal if preventive measures are not taken immediately after exposure 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.