Planning a Family Trip to Bali with the Kids? Read This First.
By Dr. Jonathan – Family Medical Practice
Bali is a tropical paradise, but it is currently facing a significant resurgence of rabies. Because children are statistically the most vulnerable group, knowing the facts, how to avoid contact, and the exact steps to take in an emergency is critical for a safe holiday.
The Statistics: Why Parents Need to Be Aware
Rabies is a viral infection that attacks the central nervous system. Once symptoms appear, it is 100% fatal—but it is also 100% preventable if treated immediately.
Children are the highest risk group
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), children under 15 make up 40% of all rabies exposure cases worldwide. Kids are smaller, more likely to approach animals, and prone to hiding minor scratches or licks from their parents.
The Bali Reality
Bali currently averages about 180 animal-bite incidents every single day. The local Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) recorded over 34,000 animal bites in just the first half of last year alone. During 2025, Bali has recorded 16 human fatalities from rabies. Sadly, they have failed to receive immediate medical care or receive the post-exposure vaccine after being bitten.
Local health authorities have declared several popular tourist areas as epidemiology "red zones" due to high stray dog numbers, including South Kuta (Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Tanjung Benoa) and the Mengwi District (including Pererenan and Seseh beaches near Canggu).
Avoidance:
The "Look But Don't Touch" Rule
Stray dogs (over 600,000) and cats are everywhere in Bali—on beaches, outside cafes, and near temples.
Enforce a strict "No Touching" rule: Tell your children they cannot pet, feed, or play with any local animals, no matter how friendly, sleepy, or cute they look.
Give monkeys space: Visiting the Ubud Monkey Forest or Uluwatu Temple? Do not carry visible food, snacks, or plastic bags. Never look a monkey directly in the eyes (especially a mother with a baby), as they view this as a threat and may strike.
Be aware that even so-called 'safe monkey sanctuaries' are not truly risk-free. Any exposure to these primates should be treated immediately.
Watch out for "Friendly" licks: Rabies is transmitted through saliva. A scratch from a claw licked by a dog, or a dog licking a child’s open scrape or bug bite, is considered a high-risk exposure.
Prevention: The Pre-Travel Vaccine
Consult with your doctor about the Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) rabies vaccine for you and your kids. The schedule is 2 shots a week apart (Day 0, and 7). The series should be started at least 2 weeks before traveling. While it does not eliminate the need for medical care if they are bitten, it removes the need for scarce, expensive Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) and buys you valuable time if you are staying in a remote area far from an international hospital.
Urgent Care: What to Do If you or your Child Is Nipped, Scratched, or Bitten
If your child has any physical contact with a mammal that breaks the skin, do not wait, do not monitor the animal, and do not panic. Follow this exact lifesaving sequence:
1. Vigorous Soap and Water Scrub: Do this for 15 minutes immediately.
Take the child to the nearest tap. Wash and scrub the wound thoroughly with clean water and soap for a minimum of 15 full minutes. The mechanical friction and soap disrupt and wash away the virus's outer layer, drastically reducing the viral load.
2. Apply an Antiseptic: Do not cover the wound.
After washing, dry the area and apply an anti-viral antiseptic like povidone-iodine (Betadine) or 70% rubbing alcohol. Leave the wound open—do not bandage or stitch it tightly, as trapping the virus can accelerate tissue infection.
3. Go straight to an International Hospital: Within 24 hours.
Immediately head to a major medical provider (such as BIMC Hospitals or Bali International Hospital). Inform them your child had a mammal exposure. They will initiate the Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) vaccine series.
Pack a small travel first-aid kit containing a bar of antibacterial soap, Betadine, and the contact numbers/addresses of the nearest international medical clinics relative to your hotel or villa.
With the right preparation and awareness, your family can confidently focus on making unforgettable memories exploring the vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and stunning landscapes of Bali.
Dr. Jonathan Halevy is a pediatrician with extensive international training and experience. A graduate of Tel Aviv University’s prestigious Sackler School of Medicine, he has developed deep expertise in caring for children’s health across a wide range of pediatric conditions. Dr. Halevy provides comprehensive pediatric consultations, preventive care, and guidance to support children’s growth and wellbeing. He is known for engaging with parents through educational talks and resources to help families make informed health decisions for their children.
FMP Healthcare Group operates medical centers in major cities including HCMC, Ha Noi and Da Nang, offering consultations with international doctors, check-up centers and emergency ambulance services.
Visit FMP Diamond Plaza in Ho Chi Minh City to consult with Dr. Jonathan Halevy.
To book an appointment, please call (028) 3822 7848 (FMP - Diamond Plaza) email hcmc@vietnammedicalpractice.com
