ZOOM FLAGS SURGE IN BALI RABIES TREATMENT CLAIMS

A recent uptick in insurance claims stemming from dog bites and rabies treatments in Bali has highlighted the importance of comprehensive travel insurance coverage says Zoom Travel Insurance.

A RISE IN ANIMAL BITES AND INCIDENTS

A recent series of rabies cases in Bali has made headlines, with ‘red zones’ declared in tourist zones such as south Kuta and parts of the Mengwi District. Amidst a push to vaccinate all stray dogs in tourist zones, visitors are being encouraged to exercise caution around animals, avoid contact with strays, and seek immediate medical attention if bitten or scratched, even if the wound appears minor.

Natasha Sullivan, Marketing Manager for Zoom Travel Insurance, says,

“Our team has noticed an increase in Bali claims tied to dog bites and the need for rabies treatment. While actual cases of rabies are rare, any stray or wild animal bite require immediate treatment, given the potentially fatal consequences of an untreated infection. Even if the injury is very small, any sort of skin penetration should be considered a rabies risk and must be treated.”

Rabies risks in Bali ramp up

Sullivan says that the intricacies of rabies treatment are not often understood.

“If you are bitten by a stray animal while travelling, you will require immediate treatment, as rabies can be fatal once symptoms appear. If you have not previously been vaccinated for rabies you will need a shot within seven days of being bitten. You will then require a follow up dose on day 3, 7, 14, and 28 after exposure, with the full treatment costing anywhere between $3,000 and $10,000, depending on where you are in the world.

Sullivan says that while rabies treatment is generally available in Bali, it can be difficult to obtain or unaffordable in more remote or rural regions

“Rabies treatment can be very hard to obtain at some destinations, and in some instances, you may have to fly or travel elsewhere to secure the vaccine. This scenario is more common that you’d think in less developed countries, which is yet another example of the importance of comprehensive coverage," says Sullivan. “It can be tricky to obtain the full course while you’re abroad without emergency assistance teams to help, so make sure you’re properly insured before you go.”

Monkey forests and wildlife parks-what to know

While dog bites remain the most common source of rabies transmission in Bali, monkey bites are a growing concern for tourists visiting wildlife attractions.

In 2023, a NSW Health report noted that 145 Australian tourists were hospitalized due to animal bites and scratches, many linked to monkey parks in Bali and Southeast Asia- a risk that remains significant for tourists in 2025.

And while there have been no documented rabies cases from monkey bites at regulated sites in Bali, the risk cannot be entirely ruled out, especially in areas where vaccination or monitoring may be inconsistent. Monkey bites can also transmit other serious infections such as herpes B virus, tetanus, and bacterial infections, which can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly.

Sullivan adds that prompt and appropriate treatment of any animal-inflicted wound is crucial to preventing serious complications.

“Whether its anti-venom treatment for a snake bite or the rabies vaccine, often time is of the essence. Should treatment not be available locally, travel insurance can assist in paying to get you to quickly to the best available medical centre. Should this mean flying to another country, travel insurance would typically cover emergency evacuation and associated medical costs, ensuring you receive timely and appropriate care.”

Sullivan notes that travellers shouldn’t underestimate the importance of 24/7 travel insurance support teams.

“Having immediate access to assistance can make a significant difference in navigating and resolving unexpected situations. Always check your travel insurance policies, ensuring they provide sufficient support and adequate coverage for potential wildlife encounters and emergencies.”

Rabies safety tips for travellers headed abroad:

-Speak with your GP at least four weeks before your trip to discuss whether a rabies vaccination is recommended and check what kind of medical care is accessible at your destination.

-Avoid handling or approaching animals, whether wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly. This is especially important when travelling with young children.

-Refrain from interacting with monkeys, even in places where it may be considered part of the tourist experience, such as temples or parks.

- If you're bitten or scratched, clean the area immediately with soap and running water, and seek urgent medical care, even if you’ve already been vaccinated for rabies.

FURTHER READINGS

Non-residents

Are you living in Australia temporarily and looking to go overseas for a holiday? If that's you, you've come to the right place!

Adventure activities

Keen to do more than just getting your zen on? Zoom to great cover with our adventure pack covering you for heaps more adventure sports.

RIDING A SCOOTER

At Zoom, you're covered to ride a motorbike or scooter of any engine size provided you are licensed to do so in Australia!

FAQ's

Have more questions on our cover? Our handy FAQ's help to answer all your curly questions!

GET A QUOTE

"Zoom Travel Insurance" is a registered Business name of the Insurance Geeks Pty Ltd ABN 35 612 507 785 located at Level 1, 332 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia. The Insurance Geeks is an authorised representative of Coffre-Fort Pty Limited ABN 66 125 358 518, AFS Licence No. 472457. This site contains general guidance only on insurance products available to you. Before you buy a policy, you should consider if this product suits your needs by reading the policy wording, known as a Product Disclosure Document (PDS) in light of your personal circumstances. This insurance is underwritten by HDI Global Specialty SE – Australia, principal place of business at Level 19, 20 Martin Place, Sydney NSW, 2000.