While the risk remains low – especially at well-managed sites like Ubud’s Monkey Forest sanctuary – officials stress the need to follow safety guidelines, as rabies exposure is almost always fatal if left untreated.
Dr Nyoman Arya Dharma, head of the Animal Health Centre for Gianyar Regency, said efforts were under way to prevent the spread of the deadly virus among the island’s wildlife, including through vaccination and tighter population control.
“Controlling the monkey population can help reduce the risk of spreading rabies,” he told local news outlet Bali Post on Friday.
Arya Dharma also urged tourists to avoid direct contact with wild animals. “Do not touch or hold monkeys and other wildlife, because this can increase the risk of bites,” he said.
Feeding wildlife was also dangerous as this could make them more aggressive, he said, recommending the use of protective gear – such as gloves and masks – for anyone who might get close to wild animals.
