US Embassy issues notice on rabies

The US Embassy in Indonesia has issued a second notice warning its citizens of the threat of a rabies epidemic in Bali, following a first notice earlier in the year.

The Oct. 5 notice, on the embassy's website, said based on reports in Bali-based newspapers, several hundred residents of Tabanan and Denpasar, as well as surrounding areas, had been given rabies vaccinations after dog-bite incidents.

It also stated, "The Indonesian *Health Ministry* has confirmed three deaths in Bali due to rabies. So far, there are no reports of foreign victims of rabies on Bali. Newspapers and a hospital in Bali have reported an insufficient supply of rabies vaccines."

The notice advises US citizens to exercise caution and avoid dogs and other animals that may be infected with rabies. Most foreigners suffering from serious illness or accidents in Indonesia are medically evacuated for treatment at their own expense.

"All Americans currently in Indonesia or planning to travel to Indonesia are urged to consult their medical insurance company to determine whether their policy applies overseas and whether it covers emergency expenses such as medical evacuation," the notice reads.

Bali Tourism Agency head Ida Bagus Kade Subikshu said he was not aware of the notice, pointing out the Bali Veterinary Agency was leading all efforts to tackle the epidemic.

"We've always coordinated with the veterinary agency on the rabies question," he said, adding there was no special tourism policy implemented in relation to the epidemic. He also stressed the epidemic had not had an impact on the number of foreign visitors to Bali. "To date, we've had on average 7,000 foreign visitors arrive on the island each day," Subikshu said.

"The epidemic has had no adverse impact on tourism here." The demand for rabies vaccine remains high at Sanglah General Hospital, the island's primary referral medical facility for rabies cases.