Rabies (Human) in Nepal

30 Mar 2015

On 26 Mar 2015, a 12-year-old boy died from rabies virus infection in hospital in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. The boy was bitten on the finger by a stray puppy but did not report the injury to his parents as it appeared insignificant. Signs of rabies became apparent twenty days following the injury and the child died one day after admission to hospital. This is the 2nd fatal case of rabies in the hospital within one week. Rabies remains a major public health problem in Nepal.

Advice for Travellers

Nepal is considered by WHO to be a high risk destination for animal rabies. Rabies pre-exposure vaccine is available for those considered to be at risk. Travellers should always avoid contact with animals and report any bites promptly for medical assessment.