- Rabies is a dangerous disease transmitted by the bite of an infected dog or mammal. Once symptoms appear, it is almost always fatal.
- There have been frequent incidents of Japanese nationals being bitten by dogs in Bolivia. It is recommended to receive a rabies vaccination before visiting or staying in Bolivia. If bitten by a dog, seek medical attention immediately and receive the rabies vaccine within 24 hours if possible.
- Currently, foreign rabies vaccines are difficult to obtain in Bolivia. Early vaccination is effective for rabies prevention, so if foreign vaccines are unavailable, consider using locally produced vaccines.
- Rabies is a dangerous disease transmitted by the bite of an infected dog or mammal, and it is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear.
- In Bolivia, Japanese nationals and travelers frequently experience dog bites. Therefore, it is advisable to receive a rabies vaccination before traveling or staying in Bolivia. If bitten by a dog, seek medical treatment immediately and receive the rabies vaccine within 24 hours. Even if you have received a pre-travel rabies vaccination, additional treatment may be necessary after a bite, so always consult a medical facility. Rabies can also occur in other mammals, including bats, cats, squirrels, rabbits, and rodents. Avoid contact with all mammals, both wild and domestic. If bitten by any of these animals, seek immediate medical attention and get vaccinated against rabies.
- Rabies vaccination requires several days to more than two weeks for completion. If you need to leave Bolivia before completing the vaccination series, explain your situation to a physician in your new location and follow their instructions for continuing treatment. Note that rabies vaccines in Bolivia include both local and foreign options. Foreign vaccines meet WHO safety standards, are more expensive but require fewer doses. Currently, foreign vaccines are hard to obtain in Bolivia, so if unavailable, consider using local vaccines.
- Below are medical facilities where rabies vaccinations are available, based on current information:
- La Paz
- Centro de Salud Integral “Asistencia Publica” (Camacho Street) Facebook 24-hour service
- Santa Cruz
- Centro de Salud San Carlos (343-5058) Google Maps
- Centro de Salud San Luis (353-8270) Google Maps Both are public health centers (posta) offering 24-hour service including weekends. Private hospitals in Santa Cruz (e.g., Clinica Foianini, Clinica Sirani) do not offer rabies vaccines.
- Cochabamba
- La Paz
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