Rabies Attack on Mount Batukaru Spurs Intensified Control Efforts in Bali
Fifteen hikers were attacked by a rabid dog on Mount Batukaru in late September 2025. The incident has sparked a renewed effort to control rabies on the island of Bali, Indonesia. The virus, which affects mammals including dogs, cats, and humans, is prevalent in the region and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Authorities have intensified their campaign to vaccinate and capture wild and stray animals following the attack. The Tabanan Agriculture Agency, along with national and international partners, is working to control the spread of rabies in 'red zones' - areas with a high alert level for rabies transmission. These partners include the Bali Provincial Agriculture and Livestock Office, the Ministry of Agriculture, Republic of Indonesia, and the Bali Provincial Health Office. The agency has vaccinated around 500 pet and stray dogs and implemented a rescue and relocation program to prevent the spread of the disease. The dog responsible for the attack was later captured and euthanized, with tests confirming it was infected with rabies.
Symptoms of rabies include headaches, fever, hydrophobia, and photophobia. If bitten, authorities advise avoiding contact with the animal, cleaning and disinfecting wounds immediately, alerting local authorities, and seeking prompt medical attention. All injured hikers received immediate rabies vaccines and will complete a three-dose regimen within a month. Over 34,000 animal bites suspected to carry rabies were recorded in Bali in the first six months of 2025, resulting in 12 human deaths.
The recent attack on hikers serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat of rabies in Bali. Authorities are working diligently to control the spread of the disease through vaccination campaigns and public awareness initiatives. It is crucial for residents and visitors alike to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their pets from rabies.
