Rabies is present in Europe, North and South America, Africa and Asia. Human rabies usually follows an animal bite or scratch from an infected animal. Rarely the virus can be inhaled and infection can occur this way. This is possible in bat caves and in experimental laboratories. While travelling in rabies endemic areas avoid contact with potentially rabid animals.
Children are at greater risk due to their attempts to pat, play with or feed animals.
Prompt post-exposure treatment is recommended in the event of an animal bite. If iodine is not available use whatever antiseptic is available. Where occupational exposure to animals is likely or if living in rabies endemic areas for more than 12 months, or where medical attention is unlikely to be available, then immunisation for rabies may be advisable before potential exposure. Tetanus Tetanus occurs worldwide. These are easily incorporated into minor wounds which occur in contact with the soil.