Potential rabies exposures in Metro South residents are increasing, with 55 notifications received in the first quarter of 2026.
Dogs, monkeys and cats are the most common sources of exposure, with Indonesia accounting for almost one-third of reported cases.
Consider rabies pre-exposure vaccination for patients travelling overseas or at risk of bat exposure.
Potential Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV) exposures also remain high, with 31 reported in the first quarter of 2026.
GPs should notify Public Health of all potential rabies or ABLV exposures, regardless of when the exposure occurred – this should occur before advising your patient to present to the emergency department.
Public Health will contact the patient, assess the exposure, coordinate access to Human Rabies Immunoglobulin (HRIG) if required, and provide a vaccination plan and vaccine supply.
Public Health funds HRIG and vaccines for post-exposure prophylaxis. The required doses of vaccine will be supplied to your practice, along with detailed instructions for intramuscular injection.
Consider rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis (PreP) for patients travelling overseas or who may be exposed to domestic bats.
Read more on Health Pathways.