There is a need for regularly updated information on rabies immunoglobulin availability in rabies endemic countries.

摘要

In their interesting article, "Rabies post-exposure management of travelers presenting to travel health clinics in Auckland and Hamilton, New Zealand" Marc Shaw and colleagues highlight the fact that many travelers experiencing severe animal-related injuries in rabies endemic countries and requiring rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) do not receive it in the traveled country despite its availability. Similar results were observed in Swiss, French, and Australian studies. The authors state with reason that travelers need to be made aware of the current availability of RIG in the traveled country should they require it. On the other hand, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that physicians propose preventive vaccination against rabies before departure to travelers to rabies endemic areas if they do not have access to appropriate rabies postexposure prophylaxis including vaccine and RIG.