UK travellers warned after rabies case in France
03 March 2008A warning has been issued to British travellers after a confirmed case of rabies in a dog in France on February 26th.
People heading to the country should ensure they have travel insurance to cover medical costs before setting off, particularly in four areas that are considered 'at risk'.
The four regions, which have been considered to be at risk since as far back as October 2007, are: Hautes-Pyrenees, Gers, Seine-et-Marne and Calvados.
While the risk to humans is considered very low, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) stressed the importance of seeking medical advice for anyone that is concerned after coming into contact with a dog.
Dr David Brown of the HPA said: "The risk to UK travellers is considered low; nonetheless we are advising anyone who has had significant contact with dogs such as having been bitten, scratched or licked around the eyes, mouth or on an open wound, during a stay in the affected French regions, to seek prompt medical advice.
"Prompt post-exposure treatment following a bite is effective in preventing rabies."
As yet the incident has not been followed by any human cases of rabies, which is an acute viral infection that is extremely rare in the UK and other parts of Europe.