Bali battles rabies surge, dog meat trade raises public health concerns

Bali is experiencing a surge in rabies cases, with nearly 30,000 people bitten by suspected rabid animals and five deaths reported between January and May 2026. The island, along with East Nusa Tenggara, has the highest number of rabies cases in Indonesia, where the disease is endemic in 26 of 38 provinces. In Jembrana regency, 33 animals were confirmed rabid in the first half of the year. Health officials advise immediate medical attention and vaccination after any animal bite, as rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear but is preventable with timely post-exposure vaccination. While dogs are primary carriers, cats, bats, and other mammals can also transmit the virus. Tourists are advised to avoid exposure to bites from rabies-transmitting animals. The dog meat trade, banned in Bali since 2023, is also highlighted as a public health risk due to the potential for spreading rabies, especially during the handling and slaughter of infected animals in unsanitary conditions. While cooking kills the virus, those involved in preparation are at risk. Experts emphasize public education and vaccination drives as crucial for prevention.