CDC cautions travelers about rabies in these 2 countries

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released travel health advisories for India and Haiti following recent rabies cases identified in travelers. According to a travel notice issued on November 25, a rabies case was confirmed in a U.S. traveler returning from India.

The CDC also warned that a counterfeit ABHAYRAB vaccine for humans has been circulating in major Indian cities, which may not only be ineffective but also potentially dangerous. Rabies is a viral illness that attacks the central nervous system of mammals and is primarily transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals, including dogs, cats, foxes, and raccoons.

Travelers who may have been exposed to rabies in India should seek medical attention immediately, the CDC advised. After returning home, it is important to follow up with a healthcare provider promptly.

In a separate notice on the same day, the CDC highlighted rabies risks in Haiti, reporting a case in a traveler from the Caribbean nation. The agency noted rising rabies incidents among both animals and humans in Haiti.

Visitors to both countries are urged to avoid contact with domestic and wild animals, especially those roaming freely. Travelers who may encounter such animals, or who plan to work with them, are encouraged to receive rabies vaccination before traveling.

Rabies is preventable with prompt medical care, the CDC emphasized. However, once symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal.

Despite these warnings, both India and Haiti remain at Level 1 travel advisory status, meaning travelers should simply exercise standard precautions.

Author: Natalie Monroe