Rabies is a viral infection transmitted to humans through the saliva of an infected animal. It can be transmitted following a bite, a scratch or a lick by an animal on a human. The disease is fatal if not treated in good time. The symptoms may take a few months before manifesting, with the early signs being similar to those of flu – fatigue and headache. Once the symptoms manifest, the virus will attack the nervous system, leading to fatal respiratory failure.
About the rabies vaccine for travelers
Currently in Canada, there are two pre-exposure vaccines for the virus. Since the rabies vaccines are given in several doses, you are highly encouraged to visit a travel health clinic early enough, preferably six weeks before your departure date so that you can start on the schedule. While travelling, especially to high risk areas, it is important to take all necessary precautions to avoid exposure, since post-exposure care is very limited in several places around the world and it may be very difficult to manage the situation if you get infected.
If you are travelling and you intend to interact with animals in places with poor access to quality medical care, then the rabies vaccine is one of the travel vaccinations you must consider. These include hikers, animal control specialists, those going for camping and spelunkers.
How to prevent rabies
The best method to prevent rabies when traveling is to go for the shot. The second method is to exercise a lot of caution when around animals so that you can avoid licks, bites and scratches. You should also avoid feeding, petting or picking up unfamiliar wildlife. If you will be travelling with children, then be advised that they will have higher chances of infection because they don’t understand why they should not play with wild animals. You must, therefore, strive to ensure their safety.