Six Rabies Cases Confirmed in Timor-Leste

The World Health Organization (WHO) today reported rabies cases in dogs continue to be reported from multiple municipalities in the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste during 2025.

As of June 18, 2025, the WHO's 12th Edition reported six human rabies cases between April 2024 and June 15, 2025, in a Southeast Asian country. 

Five of these cases have been fatal. Among those cases, three deaths were recorded in Oecusse, and one each in Ermera and Bobonaro municipalities.

Out of 1,445 dog bite cases reported between April 2024 and June 2025, 41% were classified as category III, considered high-risk and for which immediate vaccination and administration of rabies immunoglobulin are recommended.

However, only 18% of those category III cases have received immunoglobulin. But 66% of all bite victims received an initial rabies vaccination after exposure, but most have not completed the full recommended course.

The Ministry of Health of Timor-Leste, in collaboration with stakeholders and the public, has confirmed that it will launch a national rabies prevention campaign aimed at increasing vaccine availability, expanding vaccination of dog populations, and enhancing surveillance in both human and animal populations.

The U.S. CDC advises that you should consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive a pre-exposure vaccination before visiting Timor-Leste in 2025.

In addition to rabies, measles, typhoid, and chikungunya vaccinations should be considered before visiting Timor-Leste.