Bali Ramps Up Rabies Vaccination Efforts to Protect Locals and Tourists!

Following the recent death of a local resident from rabies, the Bali government is intensifying its vaccination program. A large-scale campaign is underway in Denpasar and is now expanding to other regions of the province, such as Buleleng.

Last month, a 35-year-old Balinese man from Buleleng Regency in northwest Bali died from rabies. Six months prior, he had been bitten by a dog but did not receive vaccination. His family confirmed that he washed and treated the wound. However, two days before his death, he began to exhibit clinical signs of rabies, including anxiety, high fever, and fear of water, light, and drafts—clear indicators that a fatal outcome was imminent.

The Bali government initiated an intensive campaign to vaccinate dogs in the regency. In one day, the Buleleng Agriculture Service vaccinated 295 domestic and stray dogs and cats.

The head of Pancasari village, Wayan Komisari, stated: “Previously, if a dog had no collar or other signs of ownership and no one recognized it, it was classified as a stray. Under old regulations, stray dogs could be eliminated. But under current rules, destroying the animal is not recommended. Here we face a real dilemma because, on one hand, the existence of a stray animal can be dangerous, but on the other, killing it is not allowed.”

Pancasari village is a popular tourist destination, home to many of Bali’s attractions such as Lake Buyan, the Instagram-famous Handara Gate, a golf course, and strawberry farms.

It’s crucial for tourists to remember that preventive rabies vaccinations before traveling to Bali do not eliminate the need for vaccination after contact with a potentially infected animal, especially in the case of a bite. In Bali, this risk comes not only from dogs and cats but also from monkeys and bats.

According to the World Health Organization’s recommendations, after contact with a potentially rabid animal, it’s essential to promptly undergo post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which involves immediate and thorough washing of wounds.

If you are bitten, scratched, or have contact with the saliva of a potentially infected animal, seek medical attention immediately!

This is one of many reasons why a medical insurance policy and travel insurance are necessary for anyone visiting Bali. As a preventive measure, avoid direct contact with animals such as monkeys, and exercise extreme caution when interacting with stray dogs throughout the province.

Sources: bali.tribunnews.com