Rabies

Rabies is caused by the Rhabdovirus family and transmitted in the saliva of infected domestic and wild animals after they bite or scratch another animal or a human. Rabies is 100% fatal if untreated.

Rabies is found in every continent except Antarctica and canine Rabies is highly endemic in rural areas in many countries around the world including and not limited to: India, China, Bangladesh, Peru, Brazil, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Guatemala, Haiti, El Salvador, Vietnam, Mexico, Colombia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Yemen, Ecuador and Indonesia.

In the early stages Rabies symptoms are non-specific but usually suggest involvement of the respiratory, gastrointestinal and/or central nervous system. Death due to respiratory failure is typical in untreated persons usually within the first 7 days of illness.

Veterinarians and animal control/wildlife workers should receive a pre-Rabies exposure course if they are traveling to areas of low endemicity. Travelers to endemic areas who plan to spend extensive time outdoors should also receive the pre-Rabies exposure vaccine.

Source: CDC Vaccine Information Statement (VIS): Rabies Vaccine (1/12/06).

So, if you are asking yourself, "what shots do I need?" click here to locate the location nearest you in Miami-Dade County, or call 305-642-9889.

You can also click here to learn more about diseases and vaccines that may impact your trip.