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The states of Kedah, Penang and Perlis in the far north of peninsular Malaysia have been declared rabies infected by the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS). This follows the first case of canine rabies to be confirmed in the country on 4 August 2015, in Perlis state. Subsequently canine rabies was identified in the other northern states of Kedah and Penang.
The initial reponse to the outbreak was to introduce the culling of stray dogs. As of 18 Oct 2015, 2224 dogs have been culled in Penang, 2002 in Kedah and 302 in Perlis. On 9 October 2015, the Chief Minister of Penang state, lifted the Rabies Infected Area order and announced that there would be no further culling.
Vaccination of dogs against rabies is also being carried out in the states. As of 18 October 2015, 1701 dogs have been vaccinated in Penang, 4117 in Kedah and 1838 in Perlis.
A rabies awareness campaign has also been carried out in affected areas and this has resulted in an increase in reports of dog bites. Between 17 September - 1 October, a total of 178 individuals reported dog bites, rising to 265 on 9 October and 312 on 18 October. As of 1 October 2015, the DVS reported 11 cases of rabies in dogs that had bitten humans and 31 cases of rabies in dogs that were being quarantined. There have been no further case in dogs reported to date.
(Via BERNAMA - accessed 26/10/15)
In the UK, Malaysia is considered a high risk destination for rabies mainly due to a lack of reported surveillance data and close proximity to other high risk countries.
Rabies pre-exposure vaccine is available for those considered to be at risk. Travellers to Malaysia should avoid all contact with animals and dogs in particular. All animal bites should be reported promptly and assessed carefully.
