AAP

December 14, 2008 12:06pm

Kuta Beach ... Tourists heading for Bali are being warned to stay away
from dogs, cats and monkeys after an outbreak of rabies.

    * Rabies outbreak in Bali
    * Tourists warned to stay away from dogs, cats and monkeys
    * Bali was previously rabies free

Tourists travelling to Bali are being warned about an outbreak of rabies
at the popular tourist destination.

The Indonesian island was considered to be free of rabies until the
fatal disease was diagnosed last week in two dogs in Kuta, a beach
frequented by Australian tourists.

Rabies affects the brain and is almost always fatal without treatment.
The usual incubation period for the disease is three to eight weeks.

The NT Department of Health and Families has issued a statement warning
people visiting the island to avoid dogs, cats and monkeys.

"At the moment, there is no indication that the disease has spread to
animals other than dogs," said acting director of the NT's Centre for
Disease Control Dr Peter Markey.

"However any animal should be considered to pose a potential risk."

Dr Markey said authorities in Bali had taken steps to control the
situation, implementing a program of culling and vaccinating dogs and
people in the affected villages.

He said anyone who had returned from Bali since August this year with
bites or scratches from an animal should consult their GP or nearest
emergency department as soon as possible.

"If you're planning on visiting Bali then avoid direct contact with all
dogs and cats, monkeys and other animals," Dr Markey said.

"If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, seek medical attention
immediately."

People suspected to have been exposed to rabies should receive rabies
immunoglobulin (RIG) and a rabies vaccination as soon as possible, Dr
Markey said.

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