Rabies (human) in China
10 June 2009
In Hanzhong city of northwest China's Shaanxi Province, two individuals have died from rabies infection.
This brings the total number of human deaths from rabies in the city since March 2009, to 11. The number of individuals in the city who have sustained dog bites has reached 6256.
A rabies prevention campaign has been carried out in the city where compulsory vaccination of pet dogs has taken place. Dog owners are being encouraged to keep their dogs on a leash or keep them off the streets.
Advice for travellers
Currently there is a global shortage of human rabies immunoglobulin (used in the treatment of a potentially rabid bite).
Travellers to the provinces of China should avoid all animal contact, including domestic cats and dogs and not rely on the availability of full post-exposure treatment. Rabies vaccine is available for those at particular risk, prior to travel.
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