Rabies pretravel vaccination

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Travel Medicine
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Rabies remains a significant public health concern globally.
• Travelers are at risk of exposure to rabies through animal bites.
• Pretravel vaccination coverage among travelers is suboptimal.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent epidemiological findings on rabies exposure and cases in travelers.
• To explore cost-effective strategies for enhancing pretravel rabies vaccination in travelers.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of global data on rabies exposure in travelers.
• Analysis of risk factors, animal sources, and geographical prevalence.
• Evaluation of vaccination strategies and post-exposure prophylaxis.

Main Results:

• Dog bites are the primary cause of rabies exposure in travelers (51%).
• Risk factors include travel to Southeast Asia, India, and North Africa; young age; and tourism.
• Over 70% of travelers lack pretravel immunization and adequate post-injury care.
• Travel duration is not a significant risk factor for exposure.

Conclusions:

• Intradermal rabies vaccination is economical, safe, and immunogenic for travelers.
• A three-dose vaccination series provides long-lasting immunity, representing a valuable investment.
• Abbreviated vaccination schedules are available for last-minute travelers.