If you are bitten, scratched or licked on broken skin by an animal in an area where rabies is present, treat it as something that needs urgent medical attention.
First, thoroughly wash and flush the affected area with plenty of soap and water. Then seek medical attention locally as soon as possible. Do not wait until you return to the UK.
This is important even if you had a rabies vaccine before travelling. Pre-exposure vaccination does not remove the need for medical assessment following a potential rabies exposure.
You should also keep records of any treatment you receive abroad and contact your GP when you return to the UK, as you may need further treatment.
The best approach is to avoid touching or feeding animals while travelling in areas where rabies occurs, including stray dogs, cats, monkeys, bats and other wildlife.
If you are planning a trip to a rabies-risk destination, consider getting Rabies Vaccine UK travel advice before departure so you can understand your personal risk and available vaccination options.