Canadian travellers cautioned with new advisory about 'deadly' outbreak in Bali

A "deadly" outbreak in Bali has prompted the Canadian government to issue an advisory for those travelling in the region.

If you're heading anywhere in Bali, Indonesia, it's important to note that on Aug. 11, the Government of Canada shared an updated health advisory for the popular beach destination due to an outbreak of rabies. Canadians travelling there are being urged to "exercise a high degree of caution."

"There is an increase in rabies cases in both dogs and humans in Bali, Indonesia, particularly in Jembrana Regency and the South Kuta and Mengwi Districts of Badung Regency," warns the advisory.

Travellers should know that rabies can be deadly if people don't receive treatment before symptoms start. Rabies is most often contracted through bites or scratches from an infected animal. Tourists, especially children, are at higher risk, so it's important to keep an eye on children when around animals.

If you get bitten or scratched, immediately wash the area with soap and water and get medical help.

If you do plan to go to Bali, the feds urge you to talk to their healthcare provider to get vaccinated to protect yourself against the disease.

"Rabies treatment may be hard to find in Indonesia," warns the statement. "If you're bitten or scratched while travelling, you may need to return to Canada for treatment."

If untreated before symptoms develop, rabies can be fatal. Although symptoms don't typically develop until about three to eight weeks or even months, death can occur within seven to 14 days once symptoms appear.

Early symptoms include fever, tiredness, headaches, anxiety or irritability. The area that was bitten, scratched or licked by an infected animal may even be painful, or you may experience tingling, numbness or itching.

The Canadian government has also recently issued travel advisories for popular destinations such as the UAE, the Philippines and others.