Rabies Prevention and Vaccination Guide

Rabies is a serious disease that affects both animals and humans. It is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but the good news is that rabies can be completely prevented.

The most effective way to protect yourself, your family, and your pets is through rabies vaccination and prevention. In Bali and across Indonesia, rabies continues to be a health concern in 2025.

Many people are still bitten by animals each year, and some of these bites carry the risk of rabies infection. This is why health authorities and hospitals are working hard to provide vaccinations, raise awareness, and ensure fast treatment when needed.

At Bali International Hospital, we provide safe and reliable rabies vaccination for both locals and travelers, as well as emergency rabies treatment if someone is bitten. This guide explains the current rabies situation in Bali, how rabies spreads, what you can do to prevent it, and what to do if you or a loved one is bitten.

Rabies Situation in Indonesia & Bali (2025 Update)

The Indonesian government continues to make rabies prevention a national priority. For example, in Jakarta alone, more than 2,000 animals were vaccinated against rabies in the first half of 2025.

Similar programs are happening in Yogyakarta and other provinces. In Bali, the government has set an ambitious goal: a rabies-free island by 2028.

To reach this target, Bali is running mass vaccination programs for dogs, cats, and monkeys, and promoting sterilization to help control stray animal populations. The vaccination coverage target for 2025 is more than 91% of animals that can transmit rabies.

Even with these efforts, cases of animal bites are still reported regularly. These numbers remind us that rabies prevention remains important, not only for pets but also for humans.

How Rabies Spreads & Why Prevention Matters

Rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the brain and nervous system. It spreads through the saliva of infected animals.

The most common ways people get infected are:

• Animal bites, especially from dogs, cats, or monkeys.
• Scratches that break the skin.
• Saliva enters the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Because rabies has no cure once symptoms appear, prevention is the best protection. Vaccinating pets and increasing public awareness are key steps to stop rabies from spreading.

Rabies Prevention for Pet Owners & Families

Every family and pet owner can play an important role in rabies prevention. Here are some practical steps:

• Vaccinate your pets every year: Dogs, cats, and even monkeys need annual rabies vaccines starting from three months of age.
• Sterilize pets: This helps reduce the number of stray animals, which lowers the risk of rabies spreading.
• Teach children to avoid strays: Kids should know not to touch or play with stray or aggressive animals, even if they look friendly.

Common Questions

When should the rabies vaccine be given?

• Pets: once a year, starting from three months of age.
• Humans: either before exposure (for those at high risk) or immediately after an animal bite.

Do I need a rabies vaccine for Bali?

• Yes, if you are traveling, working outdoors, or living in an area with many stray animals, a rabies vaccine is highly recommended.

How long does a rabies vaccine last?

• For humans, it can protect for 1-3 years, depending on the type of vaccine and your risk of exposure. Pets need a yearly booster.

Is 7 days too late for the rabies vaccine after a bite?

• It is not too late, but treatment should start as soon as possible. The earlier you begin, the better your protection.

What to Do After an Animal Bite

If you or someone you know is bitten or scratched by an animal in Bali, follow these steps immediately:

1. Wash the wound right away with soap and clean running water for at least 15 minutes.
2. Apply an antiseptic if you have it.
3. Seek medical care immediately; do not wait for symptoms.
4. Get rabies vaccination and serum if needed. Doctors will decide if you need only the vaccine or both the vaccine and rabies immunoglobulin (serum).

At our international hospital, we provide 24/7 emergency rabies care, including:

• Wound cleaning
• Post-exposure rabies vaccination
• serum if required

Our team is ready to handle bite emergencies quickly and safely.

Who Should Get Pre-Exposure Rabies Vaccination?

Some people are at higher risk of coming into contact with rabies and should consider getting vaccinated before any exposure happens. This includes:

• Travelers staying in Bali or visiting rural areas.
• Veterinarians and animal handlers.
• Outdoor workers, such as those in agriculture, forestry, or construction.
• Children living in high-risk areas since they often play with animals.

At our hospital, both pre-exposure and post-exposure rabies vaccines are available. Our team follows international safety standards to ensure effective protection for all patients.

Rabies may still exist in Bali and across Indonesia, but it is a disease we can help prevent. Regular rabies vaccination, responsible pet ownership, and getting medical care quickly after an animal bite or scratch can help protect you, your family, and the wider community.

For both locals and travelers, knowing what to do and where to get help is important. Bali International Hospital provides rabies vaccination, emergency treatment for animal bites, and professional medical care when you need it.

If you are in Indonesia, you can contact our Emergency line at 150919 or our Call Center at 1500238. For international callers, please contact our Emergency line at 62 21 3113 1923 or our Call Center at 62 21 3002 0031.

Together, we can work toward a rabies-free Bali by 2028. Don’t wait to take action.

Protect yourself, your loved ones, and your pets today. Stay safe. Vaccinate. Prevent rabies.