1 September 2004: Rabies in a Dog in South-West France, update

The Institute de Vielle Sanitaire in France is investigating a case of confirmed rabies in a dog in South-West France .

The dog, which has died, had been imported illegally into France from Morocco , via Spain . It is known to have had contact with humans, some of whom have been bitten. The infectious period for rabies transmission by the dog has been identified as 2 nd -21 st August 2004 .

Information on the dog, times and places of potential exposure, and recommendations for management of exposures has been published by the Health Protection Agency (HPA) and is available on their website at: www.hpa.org.uk/

Because the dog was known to have come in contact with other dogs, France has declared the area where the dog travelled while ill as 'rabies infected'. This area comprises the Departments of Gironde , Dordogne and Lot et Garonne . The advisory is in effect until 30 November 2004 .

Travellers who have been bitten by a dog fitting the description, or licked on an open wound or mucous membrane, on the dates and places described in the HPA report should seek urgent medical attention. Other travellers who have potential rabies exposure to animals in these Departments should seek medical attention for consideration for rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin.

All travellers are reminded to take care to avoid contact with unknown animals, including animals in countries considered to be no risk or low risk for rabies.

Health practitioners who are consulted should follow HPA guidance on managing exposures. Contact numbers for expert advice are: in England, the HPA Virus Reference Department (020 8200 4400) or the Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre (020 8200 6868); in Wales, the National Public Health Service (029 20742178); in Scotland the Scottish Centre for Infection and Environmental Health (0141 300 1100); and in Northern Ireland, the Consultant in Communicable Disease Control in the relevant Health Board or the Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre (NI) (02890 263765).

Further information about rabies can be found here