Rabies in northern Vietnam

The northern mountainous provinces of Son La, Lai Chau, Dien Bien, Lao Cai, and Yen Bai have reported an outbreak of rabies, after 200 people were bitten by dogs and 16 of whom  died of rabies. In Mu Cang Chai District, this is reported to be the first time rabies has broken out in the district, so people are not aware and have not been  going to clinics for anti-rabies vaccination.

Although rabies is a risk in all of Vietnam and all dog bites must be regarded as a rabies risk (domestic dogs as well can be bitten by strays and thus transmit the virus) this reported outbreak seems to be particularly severe and the  Department of Animal Health faces difficulties as the disease is widespread and the area of the northern provinces is large. The mountainous areas  towards the Laos and Chinese borders are very infrequently visited by tourists and those who do go there are likely to be adventurous souls who should seriously consider having the rabies vaccination before travel despite its cost and the need for three vaccinations.