PTA Warns: Rabies Spreading in Europe Threatens Estonian Travellers

The Agricultural and Food Board warns that dangerous animal diseases, including the lethal rabies virus, are spreading across Europe. Ahead of the summer travel season, the authority emphasizes the importance of pet vaccination and responsible traveller behaviour to prevent diseases from reaching Estonia.

Various dangerous animal diseases are currently circulating in Europe, with rabies being among the most serious threats to humans. The Agricultural and Food Board (PTA) is reminding Estonians as the summer travel season begins that precautions must be taken to prevent diseases from reaching the country.

The PTA emphasizes that regular vaccination of pets is one of the primary ways to prevent dangerous diseases from spreading to Estonia. The authority has critical information for both people travelling with animals and those who may come into contact with animals abroad.

Rabies is a viral disease that is virtually always fatal to humans if transmitted from animals and not treated promptly. Travellers are advised to avoid contact with unfamiliar animals, particularly dogs and cats in countries where rabies is prevalent. Anyone who comes into contact with a sick animal should seek medical attention immediately without delay.

Travellers with pets must ensure their animals have valid rabies vaccination and all necessary travel documents in order. Upon returning to Estonia, pets must comply with European Union requirements to prevent the introduction of diseases.