Risk factors for a traveler:
(1) significant level of risk for rabies based on the person's travel plans
(2) lack of awareness about the risk of rabies from various animals
(3) may be unaware of a significant exposure or fail to grasp its significance
(4) may encounter a shortage of vaccines and specific immune globulin
(5) may receive bogus drugs
(6) may receive local care that is inappropriate for the illness
(7) may not have access to critical care services
(8) may underestimate the incubation time (in the event of massive exposure that can result in fulminant disease)
where:
• A traveler to an urban area may assume that the risk of exposure is low.
• Some travelers cannot resist certain animals such as cats.
Steps that can be taken to reduce the risk:
(1) Become familiar with the extent of rabies in the country before the trip.
(2) If the risk of rabies is high, then consider immunization prior to the trip. (Vaccination of all travelers would be extremely expensive and is unwarranted for most).
(3) If the risk of rabies is high and several people are together in a group, then consider adding anti-rabies medications to the medical kit.
(4) Purchase medical evacuation insurance in advance.
(5) Avoid contact with any animal during the trip. If an exposure occur immediately wash the exposed site with soap and water.
