What do I need to know before I travel?
Public Health Scotland logo

Fit for Travel Logo

Information on how to stay safe and healthy abroad. About us.

Rabies (Feline) in France (Update)

05 Nov 2013

The World Oganisation for Animal Health (OIE) has confirmed rabies virus infection in the kitten recently imported into France.

The carcass of the animal was taken to the Institute Pasteur, where the diagnosis was confirmed on 31 Oct 2013.

The kitten was imported from Morocco on 13 Oct 2013 with a certificate of good health that does not meet the regulatory provisions for the import of domestic carnivores from Morocco. Once in France, the animal stayed with its owner until 22 Oct 2013, when it ran off and was taken in successively by 2 families on 24 and 25 Oct 2013.

A regulatory area has been established in order to limit domestic carnivores' movements, to establish an enhanced surveillance, and to enhance the capture of stray animals.

Advice for Travellers

France is considered by WHO as a 'No Risk' country for rabies, the status and vaccination recommendations remain unchanged. Travellers should always report any bite (including bats) for proper medical assessment.